Responding to symptoms
🔒 Pro featureA deep, chapter-by-chapter guide to over-the-counter treatment of common minor ailments, a practical and heavily examined part of the GPhC assessment. 14 chapters covering the consultation, treatment options and, crucially, the red flags that mean you refer.
The responding-to-symptoms guide is part of PassPharm Pro. Chapter 1 is free to read.
See Pro1The OTC consultation and referralFreeWWHAM, red flags and the principles of safe OTC advice.2🔒 Cough, cold and fluSymptomatic relief, decongestant limits and referral.3🔒 Sore throatSymptomatic relief and when to refer.4🔒 Hay fever and allergic rhinitisAntihistamines, nasal steroids and eye drops.5🔒 Headache and painAnalgesia, medication-overuse headache and red flags.6🔒 Heartburn and indigestionAntacids, alginates, PPIs and alarm features.7🔒 ConstipationLaxative choice, lifestyle advice and referral.8🔒 DiarrhoeaRehydration, loperamide and referral.9🔒 Skin conditionsEczema, acne, fungal infections and bites.10🔒 Eye conditionsConjunctivitis, dry eye and eye red flags.11🔒 Mouth and oral healthMouth ulcers, oral thrush, cold sores and teething.12🔒 Threadworm, head lice and scabiesTreating parasites and the household.13🔒 Women's minor ailmentsCystitis and thrush, and who to refer.14🔒 Smoking cessationNRT, combination therapy and support.
⚠️ Always check current guidance
This guide is revision material to help you learn and apply the principles. Recommendations and licensing change over time, so the current BNF, NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries and product information always take precedence.