Medicines and prescriptions

Learn more about medicines commonly used in Aotearoa New Zealand. This includes important information to help you make good decisions about taking your medicine.

There are 3 main types of pain-relief medicines for adults to use for short-term pain. These are paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioid pain relievers.

PrEP is a pill that is used to reduce your risk of getting HIV. When PrEP is taken correctly it reduces the risk of getting HIV by over 90%. It does not prevent other sexually transmitted infections.

Find out about prescription charges, the prescription subsidy scheme and charges for other medicines. You can also take steps to make sure you have all your prescription needs covered if you are spending time away from home.

Holding onto medicines you do not need can lead to them being accidentally taken, or misused.