Standing in a pharmacy in a foreign country can be overwhelming. You’re looking at boxes with different names, unfamiliar languages, and measurements that might not match what you have at home.
At We Care Pharmacies, we believe that clear communication is the foundation of safety. Whether you are in Hurghada, El Gouna, or Sahl Hasheesh, here is how to navigate medicine labels like a pro.
1. Look for the Generic Name (The INN)
The “Brand Name” (like Tylenol or Advil) changes from country to country. However, the Active Ingredient (the generic name) is international.
- Tip: Look for the smaller text under the brand name. Words like Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, or Loratadine are the same globally.
- We Care Advantage: Our pharmacists can help you match your home brand to the exact Egyptian equivalent using these international names.
2. Check the Strength and Dosage
Don’t assume one tablet is one dose.
- The Math: Look for the mg (milligrams) or ml (milliliters). A tablet at home might be 200mg, while the local version is 500mg.
- The Symbol: Ensure you understand the frequency. In Egypt, you might see “1×3,” which usually means one tablet, three times a day.
3. Understand Expiry Dates
In Egypt and many parts of the world, the date format is Day/Month/Year.
The Label: Look for “EXP” (Expiry) or “PROD” (Production). Always ensure the “EXP” date has not passed.
4. Storage Requirements
The Red Sea heat is no joke. Check if the label says:
- “Store below 25°C”: This means it should be in a cool, dry place (not in your hot car or beach bag!).
- “Keep Refrigerated”: Essential for certain eye drops or antibiotics.
5. Don’t Guess—Ask a Multilingual Professional
This is the most important rule. Never guess the dosage of a medication.