Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) is based on the Product Information (PI) but is written specifically for consumers. The CMI is intended to provide you with information and instructions that will allow you to use your medicine safely and effectively. It is prepared according to specific guidelines that ensure the information is accurate, unbiased and easy to understand. CMI are available for most prescription and some non-prescription medicines.
The CMI provides you with important information you should consider before, during and after taking your medicine. The CMI will help you to discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any questions or concerns you have about the medicine. Use the CMI to become more informed and familiar with the medicine. Keep it handy so you can refer to it later in discussions with your doctor or pharmacist.
What a CMI contains
The CMI has a standard format that includes clear headings in a logical sequence. It contains simple instructions and straightforward explanations of what you need to do to get the best results from your medicine. The CMI is designed to help you locate the information you need easily, without having to search.
The CMI will tell you:
- Who should not take the medicine
- What to tell your doctor before you start taking the medicine
- Which other medicines may interfere with your medicine
- How to take the medicine
- What to do if you forget to take the medicine
- What to do if you take too much medicine by mistake
- Things that you must or must not do while taking the medicine
- Things to be careful of, such as driving or drinking alcohol
- Symptoms and signs of possible side effects to watch for
- The ingredients in the medicine
For a more detailed description of the contents of a CMI, see the Glossary.
