Pharmacists say people are hesitating to request some common medicines, because the names sound unfamiliar or look tricky to say out loud. Experts say that support is always available, no matter how awkward a name might feel.

Niamh McMillan, Pharmacy Superintendent at Superdrug, said:“Our pharmacy teams are here to help understand what you mean even if you can’t quite get the name right. Your health matters more than pronunciation.”

She added: “You don’t need to worry about the name. Our pharmacists are experts and here to help with friendly, confidential advice whether it’s something everyday like acid reflux or allergies, or anything else you need support with.”

The team has highlighted some of the drugs that are difficult to say, with a guide on pronunciation.

Esomeprazole (pronounced: es-omep-ra-zole)

“Esomeprazole is a widely used treatment for heartburn and acid reflux, but it’s often a tongue-twister for customers, Niamh says. “When someone comes in asking for help with ‘that heartburn medicine,’ we know exactly what they mean, even if they’re not sure how to say esomeprazole.”

Fexofenadine (pronounced: fex-o-fen-a-dine)

Fexofenadine is a common antihistamine used to help relieve symptoms of hayfever and allergic reactions , but its name can trip people up. Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is an antihistamine designed to provide effective relief from allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes and a runny nose. Whether it’s pollen, pet allergies or itchy eyes, don’t let the name ‘fexofenadine’ put you off. Just describe your symptoms and we’ll point you to the right option,” Niamh said.

Loperamide (pronounced: lo-per-a-mide)

“Loperamide is the active ingredient in many anti-diarrhoea medicines but it’s rarely spoken aloud," said Niamh. “If you’re feeling unwell with an upset stomach and you just want something to stop diarrhoea quickly, that’s all you need to tell us. We know the right products even if ‘loperamide’ doesn’t roll off the tongue.”

Guaifenesin (pronounced: guai-fen-e·sin)

“Guaifenesin is an expectorant ingredient in cough remedies and it’s notorious for being hard to articulate. It’s used to help clear mucus or phlegm from the chest when you have congestion from a cold or flu.” Niamh said. “If you’re asking for something to help loosen that stubborn cough, that’s all we need. We’ll help you find exactly the medicine that’s right for you.” Chesty Cough Syrup is a soothing cough medicine designed to help loosen mucus and relieve chesty cough symptoms, making it easier to clear congestion and breathe more comfortably.