LONDON, Dec. 1 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news:
Thefestive period isa time for reflection, celebration, and gathering with family and friends. From the twinkling lights of Christmas and Hanukkah to the warmth of Yule andceremonyofZarathoshtNoDiso, fires and candles often play a part in our winter traditions.
But as we celebrate,it'simportant to stay safe - especially when it comes to medicines,andmedical devices.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) hasfivetop tips to help you stay well through the festive season and beyond:
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Bemerry, not risky:don'tmix medicines with alcohol
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What'son your plate can affect your pills - bein the know
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Safe use matters: cough and cold medicines and vitamin D
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A hidden hazard: know the fire risks of skin creams
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Don'tlet fake medicines ruin your new year: Buy safely - including weight-loss products
Dr Alison Cave, Chief Safety Officer at the MHRA, said:
"The festive season is a time to come together, share traditions, and make lasting memories. But as we fill our homes with light, warmth, and cheer,it'simportant wedon'tforget safety - especially aroundmedicinesandmedical products.
Acting on these tips will help ensure your celebrations are safe and healthy this winter, and all year round."
1.Bemerry, not risky:don'tmix medicines with alcohol
Many people enjoy a festive drink, but alcohol can interact with medicines in dangerous ways.When combined with alcohol, some medicines may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or poor coordination, increasing the risk of accidents.
Always check the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with your medicine or ask your pharmacist ifit'ssafe to drink alcohol while taking it.
Even ifyou'renot driving a car, you should still take care when using a mobility scooter or powered wheelchair. These aremedical devices, and alcohol or medicines that impair judgment can make their use unsafe.
2.What'son your plate can affect your pills - bein the know
The winter months - and the festive season in particular - often bring changes to our usual eating and drinking habits. Butit'simportant to remember that some foods,drinksand supplementscan interact with your medicines, potentially altering how well they work or increasing the risk of side effects.
If you take warfarin to prevent or treat blood clots, be aware that cranberry products may increase the likelihood of bruising or bleeding. Equally, traditional Christmas vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, broccoli and leafy greens are rich in vitamin K, which reduces the effectiveness of warfarin. These foods should not be avoidedaltogether- instead, try to eat consistent amounts so your vitamin K levelsremainsteady.
With Christmas treats everywhere,it'simportant to remember that certain foods can affect how some medicines work. For people who use insulin, sugary festive snacks like chocolates can cause unexpected changes in blood glucose levels. Enjoy them in moderation and follow the guidanceyou'vebeen given on managing your treatment over the holidays.
Some traditional festive foods can also interact with specific medicines. Tyramine-rich foods-such as aged cheeses and dark chocolate-can cause problems for people taking certain medicines likemonoamine oxidase(MAO)inhibitors(a type of antidepressant). Ifyou'retaking one of these medicines, check the information that comes with yourprescription,so you know which foods to avoid.
The best way to stay informed is to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) that comes with your medicine and ask your pharmacist or GP if you need advice. Understanding potential interactions ahead offestive mealtimeshelps ensure your treatment continues to work safely and effectively throughout the festive season.
3.Safe use matters:cough and cold medicinesandvitamin D
At this time of year, coughs and colds are common. If you need relief, always read the labeland Patient Information Leafletcarefully and follow dosage instructions.
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Do not take more than one productcontainingthe same active ingredient (for example, paracetamol).
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Don'tuse cough and cold medicines for longer than the recommended number of days.
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If your symptomsdon'timprove or worsen, seek advice from a pharmacist or GP.
Simple self-care measures can alsohelp:rest, stay warm, keep hydrated, and try honey and lemon for a sore throat (but not for children under one year old). For more information on how you can treat a cold, seeCommon cold - NHS
With shorter days and less sunlight during winter, many people choose to take vitamin D supplements. These can helpmaintainbone and muscle health.
However,it'simportant not to take more than the recommended daily amount. Taking too much vitamin D over time can be harmful. Unless you have been prescribed a higher dose, the NHS recommends:
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Adults should not take more than 100 micrograms (4,000 IU) of vitamin D per day.
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Check product labels carefully and seek advice from a pharmacist if unsure which strength is right for you.
4.A hidden hazard: know the fire risks ofskin creams
Emollient creams are often used to relieve dry or itchy skin. However, residue from these creams can soak into fabrics such as bedding and clothing and make them more flammable.
If someone smokes, uses candles, or sits near an open flame,materialwithemollient creamresiduecan catch fire easily and burn quickly.
To reduce the risk:
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Keep away from open flames, candles, and cigarettes.
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If using emollients, wash bedding and clothing regularlyat the highest recommended temperatureto reduce cream build-up.Washing does not remove the residue completely, so the risk maystill remain.
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When using emollients take care the creamdoesn'tdry onto cushionsorsoft furnishings. If it does, use uncontaminated throws/covers on your seating and wash yourthrows/coversfrequentlyas above.
5.Don'tlet fake medicines ruin your new year: Buy safely - including weight-loss products
The New Year is a common time for people to think about their health and consider making lifestyle changes. But if you are looking for support with weight loss, it is vital to make sure any medicines you buy are safe, effective, andlegitimate.
The MHRA continues to warn the public about the risks ofpurchasingweight-loss medicines online. Products sold through unregulated websites or social media channels may be fake, contaminated, incorrectly dosed, orcontainpowerful ingredients not listed on the packaging. Taking these medicines can lead to serious side effects, including heart problems, psychological effects, or dangerously low blood sugar.
If you are considering weight-loss treatment, follow this advice:
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Do notpurchaseprescription-only medicines without a prescription. Medicines such as GLP-1medicines(often known as 'skinny jabs' andused for weight management in certain patients) should only be supplied after proper assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.
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Only buy medicines from registered UK pharmacies or legitimate retailers.
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For pharmacies based in Great Britain you can check on theGeneral Pharmaceutical Council's (GPhC) websitethat it is properly registered.
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Forpharmacies based in Northern Ireland please refer to thePharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland's (PSNI) website.
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Avoid products promoted on social media, especially those offering "quick fixes","miracle results",or unusually low prices. These are common signs of illegal sellers.
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Report any suspicious websites or products to theMHRA'sYellow Card schemeso action can be taken to protect others.
More advice on what you need to know about weight loss medicinescan be found onour dedicated page on the gov.uk websiteIf you need help managing your weight, speak to your GP,pharmacistor another qualified healthcare professional. They can advise on safe, evidence-based options and ensure any treatment is right for your health needs.
And remember toreport anyside effects or concerns.
Most medicines and medical devices work well and safely for most people, but no medical product is risk-free.
If you experience a side effect or have a safety concern with a medicine, vaccine, or medical device - including emollient products or oxygen equipment - report it to theMHRA'sYellow Card scheme.
By reporting, you help usmonitorproduct safety and protect others from harm.
If you need medical advice when your GP is closed, you can call NHS 111 for guidance. In an emergency, call 999 or go to A&E.
Notes to editors
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The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)is responsible forregulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe. All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.
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The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.
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For mediaenquiries, please contact thenewscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on020 3080 7651.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
