There is no “pill for everything”, but there is a kit that covers nine out of ten situations at home. Here it is, the way we recommend it. Everything is available without prescription.

What to keep

1. A fever and pain reliever (paracetamol), in the dose for your age; for children, syrup or suppositories.
2. An anti-inflammatory (ibuprofen), if you have no stomach or kidney problems.
3. Plasters in several sizes, sterile compresses, an elastic bandage.
4. A wound antiseptic (hydrogen peroxide or povidone-iodine).
5. Oral rehydration salts, for bouts of vomiting or diarrhoea.
6. An antihistamine, for allergies and stings.
7. Saline solution, for noses and for rinsing eyes.
8. A thermometer that works. Check the battery.
9. Scissors, tweezers, gloves.
10. A sheet with phone numbers: your family doctor, 112, our pharmacy.

What not to keep

Antibiotics left over from an old treatment. They are not taken “preventively” and never without a doctor; a course interrupted last time is the first reason they will not work next time. Bring them to us, to the expired-medicines container.

If you like, we can put the kit together for you at either pharmacy: tell us how many people are in the house and their ages.