If the same medicine helped a family member with the same symptoms, it will help me too.

VerdictMisleading

Can be harmful

Checked against WHO, clevelandclinic.org, medlineplus.gov

A medicine that helped a relative with similar symptoms may not help you. The same symptoms can have different causes, and taking someone else's medicine can cause side effects or delay the right care.

What experts say

Sharing prescription medicines with family members or using leftover medicines is self-medication; it can put your health at risk.1
A medicine prescribed for one person may not be safe for another. Every medicine has some risk of side effects, and some medicines are unsafe when taken too much or with other medicines.1 2 3
Using a family member's medicine for the same symptom is not checked by a doctor. The same symptom can have different causes, so you may be treating yourself without knowing the real cause.1 2

Why people believe it

It is natural to trust a medicine that seemed to help someone you love. When the symptoms look the same, it is easy to feel it must be the same illness.

What to do

Ask a doctor or health worker which medicine is right for you; do not take a family member's medicine just because the symptoms look the same.1 2 3
Tell the doctor about all the medicines and supplements you take, so they can check what is safe together.2 3
Follow the directions for your own prescription. If it is not working, talk to your doctor before changing or stopping it.1 3
Do not take or give leftover prescription medicine. Keep medicine only for the person and illness it was prescribed for.1 3