Healthy living

Are you popping your pills right?

DO finish antibiotics

Skipping antibiotics or not completing the course can cause infection to reoccur and increase the risk of antibiotic resistance, warns pharmacist Anshu Bhimbat from Lloyds Pharmacy. ‘Your body builds a defence against the antibiotic, but you won’t be fully treated, allowing any underlying infection the chance to reoccur and, if you do need to take that antibiotic again in the future, it may not be effective.’

DON’T suffer in silence

If you have an intimate issue you don’t feel comfortable discussing with your GP, your pharmacist may be able to advise you on a suitable over-the-counter product. For example, up to 45%* of women suffer from vaginal dryness, which may include symptoms such as a feeling of dryness, burning, itching and pain. For vaginal dryness, try Vagisan Moistcream (£14.99, 50g, Boots) – always read the instructions.

DON’T ignore use-by dates

Like food, the expiry date is there for a reason. ‘After this date, the active ingredient may have degraded, so you won’t get the optimum concentration in your blood stream,’ explains Anshu. So clear out any old medicines from your cupboards and renew your first aid kit. Take expired items to your pharmacy for safe disposal.

DON’T take too many painkillers

Taking painkillers and cold medicines containing the same ingredients could lead to side effects and overdosing, warns Boots pharmacist Angela Chalmers. ‘Too much paracetamol, for instance, saturates the liver enzymes preventing them from functioning and can result in permanent damage and even death,’ she says. Always read the leaflet and stick to the recommended dose.