Understand your medicines

Calcium channel blocker

A once-daily prescription medicine that lowers blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels.

Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), antimalarial

A first-line treatment for uncomplicated malaria in Ghana. It works quickly and must be taken as a full three-day course.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)

Relieves pain, reduces inflammation and lowers fever. Especially useful for pain with swelling, such as sprains and toothache.

Biguanide (oral diabetes medicine)

The most commonly prescribed first medicine for type 2 diabetes. It helps the body use insulin better and lowers blood sugar.

Electrolyte replacement

A simple sachet of salts and sugar that, mixed with clean water, replaces fluids lost through diarrhoea and vomiting.

Analgesic and antipyretic (pain and fever reliever)

One of the most widely used medicines for mild to moderate pain and fever. Safe for most people when taken at the right dose.