When was the last time you checked your medicine cabinet?
Having a well-stocked medicine cabinet will help you deal with most minor health problems and illnesses at home. The NHS suggest you stock up on the following items:
- Painkillers like paracetamol, ibuprofen and aspirin
- Antihistamines
- Oral re hydration salts
- Anti-diarrhoea tablets
- Indigestion tablets
- Sunscreen
- First aid kit
Be sure to refresh medication and supplies and if it’s out of date, don’t use it take it to your local pharmacy.
Medicine safety
When keeping medicines at home, remember:
- always follow the directions on medicine packets and information leaflets, and never take more than the stated dose
- always keep medicines out of sight and reach of children – a high, lockable cupboard in a cool, dry place is ideal
- check the expiry dates on medicines – do not use a medicine that’s past its use-by date; take it to a pharmacy, where it can be disposed of safely
They can give advice or, where appropriate, medicines that can help clear up the problem.
Instead of booking an appointment with a GP, you can see a pharmacist any time – just walk in.
Learn more about how a pharmacist can help with treating common conditions.