How Sick People Get Their Medicines: 
A Primer for Children of All Ages

1. The patient visits the doctor because he does not feel well.
   
2. Because of his training, the doctor decides the best medicine to treat the patient’s illness.
   
3. After examining the patient, if needed, the doctor writes a prescription saying that its okay for the patient to have a particular medicine.
   
4. The pharmacist fills the prescription providing the medicine to the patient OR
   
5. A nurse administers or gives the medicine to the patient. This may be a shot or injection; a pill or a liquid in a cup or spoon.
   
6. Remember: Never use someone else’s medicine. It may not work for your symptoms – and it could cause you serious harm.

For more information:
Please contact your nearest DEA office 
or
Visit one of our Internet Web Sites:
www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov 
or 
www.dea.gov

Presented as a Public Service by:

Drug Enforcement Administration
Office of Diversion Control
Washington, D.C. 20537

August 2001

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