Some cookies are essential to the running of the website, while others (analytics) help us to make improvements. We also incorporate functionality from other websites, such as video, social media feeds and ReachDeck (text-to-speech and translations services) which may set cookies. More on how we use cookies
This website uses text-to-speech software called ReachDeck to read and / or translate its content. To use ReachDeck, you must allow ReachDeck cookies; the ReachDeck icon will then appear at the bottom right of your screen.
You can find out more about how ReachDeck uses cookies or change your cookie preferences at any time by going to our cookies page.
Allow ReachDeck cookies Do not use ReachDeck
If you have a new continuous cough, a high temperature, or a loss or change to your sense of taste or smell, do not come to our hospitals. Follow the national advice on coronavirus (COVID-19).
Please find information on our services and visiting restrictions in our COVID-19 section.
Patients and visitors must wear a face covering in our hospitals.
This site is best viewed with a modern browser. You appear to be using an old version of Internet Explorer.
Medicines, which some people call drugs, are used in all sorts of ways to make you comfortable, happy and to allow your body to grow strong for the future.
We know which medicines will help you, but we also want you to know what you are taking and why. No one likes taking medicines just because they are told to.
Our medicines can help with lots of things, including:
Most medicines come as a liquid or tablet. These days we don't make them from bats' wings or pond weed, so they usually don't taste too bad. But if you are worried you may be able to take them with food or a sweet. We may also recommend eye drops.
Sometimes we ask you to have medicines by injection (a little nick under the skin with a very small needle). This may seem difficult at first but almost everyone finds them really easy once they have started. Many children find the injections better than tablets.