The Doc Replies

Why can’t you drink while taking antibiotics?

Many drugs are processed in the liver and their effect and can be changed by other things we eat and drink, including alcohol. The result is the effect of the drug can be increased or decreased by use at the same time. There is not going to be any great harm by a mixture of a little alcohol with most medicines, but there are some medicines for whom it is relevant. If you have concerns regarding a prescription you have then you might wish to ask your local community pharmacy.

I’d like to lose weight for the New Year. What do you recommend?

I hope it’s for this coming New Year! Weight-loss should not be a short-term goal but a long term lifestyle change. Any healthy diet would expect to lose 1-2 pounds or half a kilogram per week, maximum. Healthy eating should include all the food groups and plenty of fruit and vegetables and fibre, along with some of all the other elements that we need – such as protein and starch. There are lots of healthy diets out there, so have a look.

I’ve recently fallen pregnant. I was wondering if I should I ask for a flu jab or if it’s too late this year?

Yes, the flu injection is certainly recommended in pregnancy. This has been the case since the swine flu epidemic a few years ago. It was shown that certain types of flu virus are much more severe and therefore potentially dangerous to women who are pregnant. Your antenatal carers will be able to advise you about the timing and ensure that there is the availability of the flu jab should you choose to have it.

Unfortunately the Doc can’t directly respond to each query, or guarantee a reply.

When in doubt contact your own GP