Top tips for using medicines and medical devices safely this festive season

The HPRA is today reminding the public to prioritise the safe use and storage of medicines and medical devices over the festive season. With holiday travel, changes in routine, and seasonal foods, it’s important to plan ahead to avoid health risks.

Here are some of the HPRA’s top safety tips to keep in mind at this time of year.

Be mindful of food and drink interactions

Certain products, including some of those we might consume more of at Christmas, can interact with your medicines, altering how they work or increasing the risk of side effects. One of the easiest ways to check if food, alcohol or other drinks could cause an interaction with your medicine is to read the patient information leaflet. You can also ask your pharmacist or GP for advice.

Avoid mixing medicines with alcohol

Alcohol can interact with many medicines, including those bought over the counter. It’s always best to ask your doctor or pharmacist about whether it is safe to drink alcohol if you are taking medicines.

Plan ahead to take the correct dose

Ensure you have enough prescribed medicines so that you can continue to take the correct dose over the Christmas period. It’s important not to order more than necessary but you may need to plan ahead especially if travelling or if your pharmacy has changed opening hours.

Feeling under the weather?

If taking over-the-counter medicines this festive period, always read the patient information leaflet and follow the instructions for use. Remember, many cold, flu, and pain medicines contain paracetamol so check the ingredients carefully. You could take too much paracetamol by mistake.

Check first aid boxes

If you keep a first aid box at home, check that you have the medicines, medical devices and other supplies needed to treat minor ailments this Christmas. This could include paracetamol and ibuprofen as well as a thermometer, plasters, bandages and sterile wipes.

Travel smartly

When traveling with essential medicines or medical devices, store them safely and securely, and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures for extended periods. Remember also that some countries use different plug types. Double-check before you fly so you can buy the right adapter in advance to plug in or charge your device.

Charge up

If your medical device relies on electricity or batteries, have backups ready in case of power outages or travel delays.

Pet care

Don’t let travel commitments or holiday closures catch you off guard. Make sure your pet has enough of any prescribed medications to last through Christmas and as always keep these stored safely in their original packaging.

Report an issue

Please remember that if you experience a suspected side effect or a safety issue with a health product, this can be reported to us at hpra.ie/report.

If you are worried about your health or the health of someone you care for, always speak to a healthcare professional.