Is it safe to use a prescribed medication for someone else?

• A. Yes, if they say it's okay
• B. No, only for the person it was prescribed
• C. Yes, if you know them well
• D. Yes, if it's a similar medication

Answer: (B)

Medications are prescribed for a specific person because their health history, allergies, other medicines, and how they respond to the drug all influence the right dose and use. The exact dosage, timing, and instructions are chosen for that individual and are meant to be monitored by a clinician. Using someone else’s prescription can cause harm—different people can have different reactions, potential allergies, or drug interactions, and the dose that’s safe for one person can be unsafe for another. Even if the medication seems similar, the active ingredient, strength, and formulation can differ. Because of these safety and legal considerations, it should only be taken by the person for whom it was prescribed. If you have questions about a medicine, talk to a pharmacist or clinician rather than sharing meds.