Common English Mistakes in Prescription Guides by Arabic Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Arabic speakers from United Arab Emirates when writing a Prescription Guide in English.

Mistake Example #1

Misuse of articles ('I have car' instead of 'I have a car')

Take one tablet of medicine after breakfast every day. If you experience aheadache or dizziness, consultyour doctor immediately. Do not take medicine on an empty stomach, as it may cause discomfort. Keep medicine out of reach of children and store it in acool, dry place.

Text corrected by:
Miss E., Cyprus, Europe

"This is mostly well-written. However, don't forget to use articles in your sentences: for example, "If you experience headache" should be "If you experience a headache" and "on empty stomach" should be "on an empty stomach"."

Take one tablet of medicine after breakfast every day. If you experience a headache or dizziness, consult your doctor immediately. Do not take medicine on an empty stomach, as it may cause discomfort. Keep medicine out of reach of children and store it in a cool, dry place.

Take one tablet of medicine after breakfast every day. If you experience headache or dizziness, consult doctor immediately. Do not take medicine on empty stomach, as it may cause discomfort. Keep medicine out of reach of children and store it in cool, dry place.

Mistake Example #2

Overuse of passive voice

The medication is to be taken twice daily, and it is recommended that it is consumed with food. The dosage is to be adjusted by the doctor if side effects are experienced. It is advised that the medication twisce daily, preferably with food. If you experience side effects, your doctor will adjust the dosage. Storethe medication at room temperature and keepit away from direct sunlight.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to reduce the use of passive voice."

Take the medication twice daily, preferably with food. If you experience side effects, your doctor will adjust the dosage. Store the medication at room temperature and keep it away from direct sunlight.

The medication is to be taken twice daily, and it is recommended that it is consumed with food. The dosage is to be adjusted by the doctor if side effects are experienced. It is advised that the medication is stored at room temperature and kept away from direct sunlight.