Asking About Over-the-Counter Options
Beginner English listening exercise · Pharmacy
Transcript
[Customer] Excuse me, can you recommend something for a cold? I've got a sore throat, congestion, and a headache. [Pharmacist] Sure. How long have you had these symptoms? [Customer] About three days. [Pharmacist] Any fever? [Customer] A low-grade one — about ninety-nine degrees. [Pharmacist] Okay. For a combination of symptoms like yours, I'd recommend a multi-symptom cold medicine. This one contains acetaminophen for pain and fever, a decongestant for your stuffy nose, and dextromethorphan if you have a cough. [Customer] I don't really have a cough. Is there one without the cough suppressant? [Pharmacist] Yes, this formula here is just for cold and sinus — no cough medicine. Take two caplets every six hours. [Customer] What about my sore throat? [Pharmacist] These throat lozenges with menthol and benzocaine work well. They numb the throat and provide temporary relief. [Customer] Are there any interactions with my blood pressure medication? [Pharmacist] That's an important question. Which blood pressure medication do you take? [Customer] Lisinopril. [Pharmacist] In that case, avoid decongestants — they can raise blood pressure. Let me suggest an antihistamine-based product instead. This one is decongestant-free and safe with your medication. [Customer] Thank you for catching that!
Comprehension questions
- Why should the customer avoid decongestants?
- What does acetaminophen treat?
- How many days has the customer had their symptoms?
- What product does the pharmacist recommend for the sore throat?
- What temperature does the customer's low-grade fever measure?