B1English

At the Pharmacy

Use these phrases to describe your symptoms, ask about medication, and communicate clearly with a pharmacist.

Key Phrases

Voice
Asking for symptom relief · 3 ways to say it

Could you recommend something for a bad cold?

polite

Useful when asking the pharmacist for professional advice.

Do you have something for an upset stomach?

neutral

I need something for a headache.

casual
Describing symptoms · 2 ways to say it

I've had a terrible headache since yesterday.

neutral

The present perfect is used here for a symptom that started in the past and continues.

My stomach really hurts.

casual
Handing in a prescription · 2 ways to say it

I'd like to fill this prescription, please.

polite

US English.

I have a prescription to hand in.

neutral

UK English.

Picking up medicine · 2 ways to say it

I need to pick up my prescription.

casual

US English.

I'm here to collect my prescription.

neutral

UK English.

Asking about dosage · 2 ways to say it

How often should I take this?

neutral

Can I take two of these at once?

casual
Asking for instructions · 2 ways to say it

Should I take this with food?

neutral

Will this make me feel sleepy?

casual

Important to ask if you need to drive or work after taking it.

Checking interactions

Can I take this with my other medicine?

neutral
Seeking advice

Do I need to see a doctor for this?

neutral
Finding over-the-counter medicine

Where can I find the painkillers?

neutral

Practice Dialogue

Customer
Hi, do you have something for an upset stomach?
Pharmacist
Sure. How long have you felt like this?
Customer
Since last night. My stomach really hurts, and I feel a bit weak.
Pharmacist
Right. Well, you could try this medicine.
Customer
Okay. How often should I take this?
Pharmacist
Take one pill every six hours, and make sure you take it with food.
Customer
Got it. Will this make me feel sleepy?
Pharmacist
It might make you a bit tired, yes. So don't drive after you take it.
Customer
I understand. Oh, and where can I find the painkillers?
Pharmacist
They're just down aisle four, on the left.
Customer
Great, I'll go grab some. Thanks.

More Health & Pharmacy (B1)

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