Book excerpt: The complete home reference to over 2,500 medicines - fully revised and updated. The BMA New Guide to Medicine & Drugs Ninth Edition is the fully updated, quick-reference guide to drugs for anyone wanting to know more about the medication they're taking, from Britain's leading authority. Jargon-free and easy-to-follow, get all the vital information you need on 2,500 of today's prescription and over-the-counter drugs fast. Find advice on understanding and using medicines and learn how they work, what they treat, their risks, benefits, side effects, and how to use them safely and effectively. Plus, get detailed full-page profiles of 276 commonly used medicines and information about drugs new to the market. Essential guidance for anyone taking medication, or wanting to know more about the major drugs used in common medical practice. The BMA New Guide to Medicine and Drugs Ninth Edition is perfect for the family bookshelf and for healthcare professionals.