Ever taken painkillers like they were groundnut? Or popped antibiotics like Vitamin C? 😩 You’re not alone! Many Nigerians misuse common drugs without realizing the serious health risks. Some medications, when abused, can silently damage your organs, weaken your immune system, or even become life-threatening.

Let’s break down some of the most abused everyday medications and what they could be doing to your body. 🚨

1. Painkillers (Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, Diclofenac, etc.)

Painkillers are like the best friend we call on for everything—headaches, menstrual cramps, back pain, even small fever! But do you know that overusing them can harm your liver, kidneys, and stomach?

🔴 The danger:

• Taking too much paracetamol can damage your liver (and you may not feel the effects until it’s too late).
• Ibuprofen and diclofenac can cause stomach ulcers and kidney problems, especially if taken on an empty stomach or for too long.

✅ What to do instead:

• Use painkillers only when necessary and in the right dosage.
• If you’re taking them more than a few times a week, talk to a pharmacist—it might be time to find the real cause of your pain.

2. Antibiotics (Ampiclox, Amoxicillin, Augmentin, etc.)

Ah, antibiotics—the go-to “cure” for everything from cough to fever. Some people even buy half sachet and stop taking them once they feel better. 🚩 Big mistake!

🔴 The danger:

• Misusing antibiotics creates antibiotic-resistant bacteria, meaning that when you actually need them, they won’t work anymore!
• Taking them when you don’t need to (e.g., for viral infections like the flu) is pointless and harmful.

✅ What to do instead:

• Only take antibiotics when prescribed by a doctor or pharmacist.
• Always complete the full dose, even if you feel better before finishing it.

3. Blood Pressure Medication (Amlodipine, Lisinopril, etc.)

If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure (hypertension) and you take your meds only when you “feel somehow”, you’re putting your life at risk.

🔴 The danger:

• Skipping doses can lead to heart attack or stroke, even if you don’t feel any symptoms.
• Inconsistent use confuses your body, making the medication less effective over time.

✅ What to do instead:

• Take your BP meds every day, as prescribed.
• Monitor your blood pressure regularly.

4. Sleeping Pills & Sedatives (Diazepam, Lexotan, etc.)

Many people use sleeping pills or anxiety meds to “knock themselves out” after a stressful day. But long-term use can be highly addictive.

🔴 The danger:

• Your body can become dependent, meaning you can’t sleep without them.
• High doses can cause breathing problems—and in extreme cases, death.

✅ What to do instead:

• Use them only under medical supervision.
• Try natural sleep aids like warm milk, less screen time before bed, and a consistent sleep schedule.

5. Multivitamins & Herbal Supplements

Yes, even multivitamins can be dangerous if you overdo them. Some people take multiple supplements at once, believing more is better. It’s not!

🔴 The danger:

• Overloading on Vitamin A, D, or iron can cause toxicity.
• Some herbal supplements interact badly with prescribed medication.

✅ What to do instead:

• Stick to the recommended dosage.
• If you’re on any other medication, ask your pharmacist before adding new supplements.

Final Thoughts: Your Health is Not a Game!

The fact that you can buy a drug without a prescription doesn’t mean it’s harmless. Medications should be used with wisdom and caution—too much of a good thing can become dangerous.At FountainMed Pharmacy, we don’t just sell medicine—we guide you on proper use so you can stay safe and healthy. Visit us in Lekki or shop online for nationwide delivery! 💊🚀