Stock up your medicine cabinet for festive season

Stirling Observer readers were this week urged to plan ahead if they require to renew repeat prescriptions over the festive season.

With December 25 fast approaching, people across Forth Valley are being urged to check their repeat prescriptions as part of a major health drive.

The NHSScotland ‘Be Health-Wise this Winter’ campaign is reminding people to make sure they check any regular medicines they need for themselves and those they look after ahead of the festive holidays.

John McAnaw, head of pharmacy at NHS 24, said it is important for people to make sure they have enough supplies to last them through to the New Year.

He said: “We are asking people to Be Healthwise this winter, especially in preparation for the festive season ahead. So, people with repeat prescriptions need to check that they will have enough medicines to last them through Christmas and into the New Year, and if they don’t they should order what they need and make sure they pick them up in plenty of time.”

John is also asking the public to think about approaching their pharmacy first.

He added: “I would also suggest that people have a chat with their pharmacist for advice on what medicines to keep in the house to treat winter ailments such as coughs or colds, or even just to get advice on what medicines are suitable for children to take. Make the pharmacy your first port of call for health and medicines advice this winter.”

The national campaign also encourages people to check their GP and pharmacy opening times before the holidays. Scotland’s service directory on the NHS inform website has names, addresses, opening times and service details for thousands of NHS services in Scotland.

Advice on how to stay healthy this winter can be found at www.nhsinform.scot/winter or contact NHS inform Health Information Advisors on 0800 22 44 88.