WWHAM questions

Who is it for? Remember, it might not be the customer who needs the treatment. Products containing aspirin, naproxen, diclofenac or codeine can only be recommended to certain age groups. 

What are the symptoms? Ask the customer to describe the type of pain they have and point out where it is hurting. The painkiller recommended may depend on the type of pain (e.g. an NSAID if there is inflammation).

How long have the symptoms been present? This will help to establish whether the pain is acute or chronic.

Action already taken? This will help to establish what they have already tried so that you can recommend a different active ingredient or format, if necessary.

Medication? It is important to refer customers who are taking other medication, especially for long-term conditions, to the pharmacist in case it's their current medication that's causing the problem.

When to refer to the pharmacist

• Any customer who requests an NSAID and has or has had asthma, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, a stroke, heart, liver, kidney, bowel or stomach problems, or is a smoker
• If there is persistent pain that is not relieved by OTC painkillers
• Anyone buying large quantities of analgesics on a regular basis
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Anyone under the age of 18 who requests combination painkillers.