Festive Season Health Warnings: From Flammable Creams to Food-Medication Interactions
As the festive season approaches, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is issuing notable health and safety reminders, covering everything from skincare to seasonal food and alcohol consumption. These warnings aim to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday period for everyone, notably those managing health conditions or taking medication.
A key concern highlighted by the MHRA is the fire risk associated with emollient creams. These medical moisturisers, commonly used to treat eczema and dry skin, can soak into clothing and furnishings, significantly increasing their flammability. Individuals using these creams are advised to exercise extreme caution around open flames, including candles.
Beyond fire safety, the MHRA also cautions about potential interactions between festive foods and certain medications. For individuals taking the anticoagulant warfarin, consistent consumption of vitamin K-rich vegetables like brussels sprouts and broccoli is crucial. Fluctuations in vitamin K intake can affect the medication’s effectiveness,so avoiding these vegetables isn’t necessary,but maintaining a steady intake is.
Though, some festive treats may need to be limited or avoided altogether. Foods containing tyramine, such as aged cheeses and dark chocolate, can cause a risky spike in blood pressure for those taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors - medications used to treat depression and Parkinson’s disease. Torbay and south Devon NHS trust adds that smoked fish, beer, figs, gravy granules, paté and cheesy biscuits should also be avoided by individuals on MAO inhibitors.
The MHRA also reminds the public that alcohol can interact negatively with many medications, potentially causing drowsiness, dizziness, or impaired coordination. This caution extends to users of mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs, as these medical devices require clear judgment for safe operation.
Further warnings include advice against purchasing weight-loss medications online from unregulated sources. These products might potentially be fake, contaminated, incorrectly dosed, or contain undisclosed harmful ingredients, leading to serious health consequences. The MHRA stresses that weight-loss medications should only be obtained with a prescription from legitimate suppliers.
with the increase in seasonal coughs and colds, the MHRA emphasizes the importance of adhering to dosage instructions for over-the-counter medications and avoiding taking multiple products containing the same active ingredient, such as paracetamol.
Dr. Alison Cave, chief safety officer at the MHRA, emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety alongside festive cheer.Professor Victoria Tzortziou-brown, chair of the Royal College of GPs, supports this advice, encouraging patients to review medication information leaflets, consult the NHS website, or speak with a pharmacist to refresh their understanding of potential side effects. Access to health advice is also available through NHS 111 services and GPs.
