Need to talk? Call 1800 882 436.
It's a free call with a maternal child health nurse. *call charges may apply from your mobile
Is it an emergency? Dial 000
If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately.
The NPS MedicineWise website is now hosted by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care as part of the redesign of the Quality Use of Diagnostics, Therapeutics and Pathology program.
Established in 1998 with the primary aim of promoting quality use of medicines, the website today empowers all Australians to make the best possible healthcare decisions.
The NPS MedicineWise website provides practical tools and information about medicines, health conditions and medical tests.
This information was originally published on healthdirect - NPS MedicineWise.
Last reviewed: January 2023
Found 25 results
Learn about how to weigh up the pros & cons of taking a medicine & how to work with your health professional to make the right decisions for you.
Read more on NPS MedicineWise website
Imaging should only be considered if the benefits to your child are likely to outweigh the radiation risks or other potentially harmful effects. Find out what questions to ask your doctor.
Read more on NPS MedicineWise website
Learn what you can do about respiratory tract infections (RTIs) - from colds, flu and sore throat to pneumonia.
Read more on NPS MedicineWise website
When you are breastfeeding, medicines you take may pass into your breastmilk. Deciding to use any medicine involves weighing up the potential benefits and risks.
Read more on NPS MedicineWise website
Measles is a potentially dangerous disease that is almost completely preventable through vaccination. Find out why being fully vaccinated against measles is important for you and for others.
Read more on NPS MedicineWise website
Learn how to give medicines safely to children, because small mistakes can cause big problems in little bodies.
Read more on NPS MedicineWise website
Complementary medicines are taken by millions of Australians & sold in supermarkets and pharmacies. Find out more about them, & how to use them safely.
Read more on NPS MedicineWise website
You, your child and their teachers should all know what medicines your child takes, where they are kept and how to use them – especially in an emergency.
Read more on NPS MedicineWise website
Children's coughs, colds, earaches and sore throats can worry you and make them miserable. Find out how to help your child feel better, and when to seek further advice.
Read more on NPS MedicineWise website
Asthma is a long-term (chronic) disease of the airways. Find out how a proper treatment plan can help you manage asthma and lead a healthy, active life.
Read more on NPS MedicineWise website
Need further advice or guidance from our maternal child health nurses?
Healthdirect Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners and to Elders both past and present.
© 2025 Healthdirect Australia Limited
This information is for your general information and use only and is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes.
The information is not a substitute for independent professional advice and should not be used as an alternative to professional health care. If you have a particular medical problem, please consult a healthcare professional.
Except as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, this publication or any part of it may not be reproduced, altered, adapted, stored and/or distributed in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Healthdirect Australia.