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Mixing some common medications and alcohol at Christmas can cause serious issues, health official said(Image: Getty)<\/p>\nThe Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency today said taking medication incorrectly \u2018can lead to dangerous and unexpected effects\u2019Mixing some common medications and alcohol at Christmas can cause serious issues, health official said(Image: Getty)<\/p>\n
Health experts have told people to be extremely careful of taking some very common medication this winter – including everyday painkillers such as paracetamol. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency<\/a> (MHRA ) today (December 8) issued a warning saying that taking pills incorrectly \u2018can lead to dangerous and unexpected effects.\u2019<\/p>\n Even cough syrups can cause problems, the MHRA said<\/a>. When used incorrectly, particularly alongside alcohol, even familiar products can cause harm, they warned. And with more people socialising, travelling and relying on over-the-counter treatments, the risk of accidental misuse increases.<\/p>\n Leigh Henderson in the MHRA\u2019s Safety and Surveillance team<\/a>, said: \u201cAt this time of year, people are often taking more medicines \u2013 whether for colds, allergies or aches and pains \u2013 and may also be drinking more alcohol. The biggest safety risks often come from simple misunderstandings, including not realising that alcohol can interact with certain medicines. By taking a few easy precautions, you can keep yourself and your family safe this Christmas<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>\n Five festive medicine tips to avoid mistakes:Don\u2019t mix medicines with alcohol \u2013 be merry, not risky: Alcohol can interact with many medicines, even those bought over the counter. Combined with medicines that cause drowsiness or affect coordination, it can increase dizziness, slow reactions and raise the risk of falls and accidents. This doesn\u2019t only apply to driving \u2014 using mobility scooters or powered wheelchairs can also become unsafe. Always read the Patient Information Leaflet or ask your pharmacist whether it\u2019s safe to drink while taking your medicine.Don\u2019t double up on paracetamol: Many cold and flu remedies already contain paracetamol. Taking them alongside painkillers that also include it can lead to accidental overdose.Don\u2019t take expired medicines: Clear out old or leftover medicines; expiry dates matter. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of them safely.Don\u2019t ignore the leaflet: Always read the Patient Information Leaflet, even for medicines you\u2019ve used before. Guidance can change, including advice about alcohol interactions.Don\u2019t share medicines: Never share prescription medicines, even with family. What\u2019s safe for one person may be harmful to another.<\/p>\n The MHRA asked people to report any side effects or concerns. It added: “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 \u2013 including emollient products or oxygen equipment \u2013 report it to the MHRA\u2019s Yellow Card scheme. By reporting, you help us monitor product safety and protect others from harm.”<\/p>\n