The Consumer Medicines Line – also known as the adverse medicine events line – has provided a valuable service to Australians. However, there is now a wide range of trusted and high-quality supports available to help people safely and confidently manage their medicines.
Importantly, Australians can get advice about their medicines from their GP, nurse practitioner, midwife or community pharmacist. These providers know your medical history and can give advice that is personal and coordinated.
Closure of the Consumer Medicines Line supports a broader approach to strengthen primary care in Australia.
The focus is on helping people get the right care, in the right place, at the right time, through services that are connected and centred on the patient.
What this means for you
For questions about your medicines, contact your regular healthcare provider first.
This includes concerns about side effects or how to take your medicine safely.
Using your usual provider helps:
- Continuity of care – your provider understands your medical history
- Shared decision-making – you can make informed choices together
- Safer care – less duplication and fewer gaps in treatment
Community pharmacies and general practices are easy to access and trusted sources of care, often with extended hours.
In an emergency, contact 000.
You still have access to a range of free and reliable services:
- 1800 MEDICARE (1800 633 422)
Available 24 hours a day. Registered nurses provide advice and help you find the right service. - Trusted online information
- Home Medicines Reviews (HMRs)
A pharmacist reviews your medicines and provides advice to you and your GP.
You can report side effects or problems with medicines directly to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Your usual healthcare provider can assist you to report suspected adverse events or safety issues, and assess whether any medication adjustments are needed.
The Consumer Medicines Line will operate as usual until 30 July 2026.
Find out more about the Consumer Medicines Line closure.