Pictograms can convey a message in a compact way. They also support a text, making it easier to understand. Pictograms in information on medicines can help people to better understand the information. They are also better able to follow instructions for medicine use.
One set for clearer information on medicines
Visuals and pictograms can make information easier to understand. There are currently many different sets of pictograms. As a result, patients have to again learn their meaning with each use. This leads to patients not properly recognising the meaning of pictograms.
For this reason, the 'Together towards Clear Medicine Pictograms' partnership developed a set of pictograms. This set comprises over 50 pictograms with accompanying text that can make information on medicines easier to understand. The set is available to anyone developing information on medicines.
Use of pictograms
The pictograms can be used in information on medicines and vaccines. This could include (online) educational materials such as package or regular leaflets, medicine packaging, videos or infographics on medicine use.
The pictograms are available as vector files (.eps - .pdf -.svg) and pixel files (.png), in colour and black and white.
If you want to use the set of pictograms, fill in the application form, indicating the desired format of the pictograms. The use of pictograms is subject to certain conditions, chief among which are:
- The pictograms should always be supported by accompanying text. We urgently advise you to use the caption provided. In the package leaflet and on a medicine packaging, a pictogram should only be used together with the accompanying text.
- No modifications may be made to the pictogram or the symbols used.
- The parties that have developed the pictograms are not liable for incorrect use or misinterpretation of the pictograms.
Read the terms of use for a complete overview (currently only available in Dutch).
To use the pictograms in the package leaflet and/or on the medicine packaging, please refer to the guidelines in the following national policy documents:
Questions?
If you have any questions about the application, use or creation of pictograms, contact us.
About the Partnership
The 'Together towards Clear Medicine Pictograms' partnership comprises the following parties: Medicines Evaluation Board, Royal Dutch Pharmacists Association (KNMP), Netherlands Patients Federation, KIJKsluiter Foundation, Health Base Foundation, Nivel, Biosimilars and Association of the Dutch Generic Medicines Industry (BOGIN), Central Bureau of Drugstores (CBD), Dutch Association Innovative Medicines (VIG), Pharmi, Neprofarm, The MedGuide Company, Association of Euro Specialités (VES), Pharos, Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, Dutch Young Pharmacists’ Association (VJA) and the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS).