Summary Background and purpose Physiotherapists are frequently asked by patients to provide advice on medications. However, as physiotherapists generally have very little training in drug therapies, they may often be unaware of when particular medications are appropriate, their side-effects, or contra-indications. This study was undertaken to investigate the extent to which physiotherapists advise their clients about medications. Method A self-administered questionnaire, which included a series of questions on advising clients about prescription medications, was administered to a random sample of 660 physiotherapists in New South Wales, Australia. The response rate was 72.5%. Results The majority of respondents (85.9%) advised clients about prescription medications they were currently taking at some stage during treatment. This advice was given because clients requested it (77.9%); because incorrect usage was detected (74.9%) or because the present medication regime was ineffective (44.6%). Three-quarters (74.4%) advised patients about prescription medication which might be useful in the treatment of their conditions but which clients were not currently taking. This advice was often accompanied by a recommendation that clients see a medical practitioner. Conclusion A significant number of physiotherapists give advice about prescription medications. It appears that patients receive inadequate advice from other health professionals and the relatively relaxed atmosphere of a physiotherapy consultation is conducive for them to discuss their concerns about healthcare. Many respondents felt they were inadequately educated in pharmacology. Considering that drugs are an integral part of most treatments, and yet may have a deleterious affect on physiotherapy, professional training should include more education in this area as well as emphasising the legal standing of physiotherapists in relation to advising about medications.