A2English

At the Pharmacy

Use these simple phrases when you buy medicine or ask a pharmacist for help.

Key Phrases

Voice
Asking for a remedy · 2 ways to say it

Do you have something for a stomachache?

neutral

Use 'something for' and your problem. For example, 'something for a cold'.

I need something for a bad headache.

casual
Buying painkillers · 2 ways to say it

Can I get some Tylenol?

neutral

US. 'Tylenol' is a very common American pain medicine.

Could I have some paracetamol, please?

polite

UK. 'Paracetamol' is the standard British word for this painkiller.

Describing symptoms · 2 ways to say it

I have a bad cold and a fever.

neutral

My stomach hurts a lot.

casual
Dealing with prescriptions · 2 ways to say it

I have a prescription from my doctor.

neutral

Say this when you first give the paper to the staff.

Can I pick up my prescription, please?

polite

Say this when you return to get your ready medicine.

Asking about dosage · 2 ways to say it

How often should I take this?

neutral

Do I take these pills with food?

casual

Some medicine can make your stomach hurt if you do not eat first.

Asking about side effects

Will this medicine make me sleepy?

neutral

Practice Dialogue

Customer
Hi, can I pick up my prescription, please?
Pharmacist
Sure. What is your last name?
Customer
Smith. Oh, and do you have something for a bad cold?
Pharmacist
Yes. Do you have a fever too?
Customer
No, just a cold and a headache.
Pharmacist
Okay. You should take these pills. They work fast.
Customer
Thanks. How often should I take them?
Pharmacist
Take two pills every six hours. Take them with food.
Customer
Okay, great. Will they make me sleepy?
Pharmacist
Yes, a little. You should rest. That is fifteen dollars.

More Health & Pharmacy (A2)

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