Gauteng Health warns: don’t share prescribed medicines

The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has warned residents not to share prescribed medicines, saying doing so can put lives at risk.

Why sharing pills is risky

GDoH spokesperson Steve Mabona told residents that a prescription is written for one person only and that the same symptoms do not mean the same treatment. Mabona said:

“Every prescription is based on an individual’s specific health condition, medical history and treatment needs.”

He added:

“What may be safe and effective for one person could be harmful to another.”

Who should be especially cautious

The department highlighted that patients with HIV, TB, hypertension, diabetes, asthma, epilepsy and mental health conditions need to be particularly careful about sharing or altering treatment. Mabona warned that missing doses, taking medication incorrectly or stopping treatment without consulting a healthcare professional can reduce treatment effectiveness and place patients at risk of serious health complications.

Antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance

The department warned against misusing antibiotics, noting that antibiotics do not work on flu or the common cold. It said the unnecessary use of antibiotics contributes to antimicrobial resistance, making infections more difficult to treat and increasing the risk of complications. Patients prescribed antibiotics should finish the full course, even if they feel better.

Storage, disposal and using pharmacist expertise

Mabona advised that medicines should remain in their original packaging and be kept away from children, sunlight, heat and moisture. He said:

“Not all medicines require refrigeration, and members of the public who are uncertain about storage requirements are encouraged to seek advice from a pharmacist.”

The department urged people to check medicine cabinets regularly and to return expired or unwanted medicines to a pharmacy, clinic or hospital. It warned that unused medicines should never be thrown into toilets, sinks or drains because of the risk to public health and the environment.

Be active in your care

GDoH encouraged patients to ask questions about their treatment and to make use of pharmacists’ expertise. The department also said that vaccination remains an important way to prevent disease.

Pharmacy Awareness Month

Mabona noted that September was Pharmacy Awareness Month and that the year’s theme was “Empowering Pharmacists for Healthier Futures”. The department encouraged communities to consult pharmacists when they need advice about their treatment.

Published 28 September 2026. Source: Gauteng Department of Health statements to the press.