Latest news with #NiamhMcMillan
Daily Mirror
20-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Expert shares ‘prescription price hack everyone should know'
Some simple requests before you pay could cut down the cost of the exact same medications With disabled people potentially facing a future without Personal Independence Payment (PIP), counting every penny becomes crucial. In an effort to help, Superdrug's Pharmacy Superintendent has divulged several top "money-saving hacks" that could see the costs of prescriptions significantly reduced. Niamh McMillan said: "One of the easiest ways to save money on private prescriptions is by choosing generic medications instead of their branded equivalents. The generic medication normally has the same ingredients and therefore offers the same benefits, at a fraction of the cost." She went on to highlight that most pharmacies provide a robust variety of generic medication which their pharmacists can advise on. Allowing customers to switch to more affordable options without compromising quality or effectiveness. Being careful with your medication doses can also hold some less obvious savings. McMillan explained: "Managing prescriptions carefully can help avoid unnecessary refills and can also help reduce costs. 'Talk to your pharmacist to ensure you are taking the right medication at the correct dosage, to help prevent waste. Superdrug's Pharmacy app helps patients to be more organised, allowing them to order repeat NHS prescriptions and set medication reminders.' Many individuals may be unnecessarily paying for their prescriptions too. Certain people, conditions and medications are provided free of charge in England. This includes items such as birth control pills, individuals over the age of 60, those on certain income-based benefits and individuals with medical exemption certificates. This certificate is given to individuals with specific conditions like diabetes or cancer. McMillan said: "Check with your Pharmacy team whether you qualify (for free prescriptions). They can also guide you through the application process. Free prescriptions and medical exemption certificates are different from prepayment certificates. Although these can also result in substantial savings. The pharmacist explained: "A Prescription Prepayment Certificate, otherwise referred to as a PPC, is a cost-effective way to manage NHS prescription costs for those living in England, who require multiple medications. By paying a one-time fee, individuals can get unlimited prescriptions for a set period, usually three or 12 months, potentially saving significant money." These certificates only save money if you have a certain amount of prescription medication that you pay for. A three-month PPC won't be much use if you have less than three prescribed medications in that time, for example. By opting for a 12-month certificate, individuals who require more than 11 prescribed items annually can make significant savings. For those with two prescribed items per month, this translates to a yearly saving of £120. Meanwhile, people with four or more prescribed items per month can expect to save over £350 annually. McMillan said: "A PPC can reduce the burden of individual NHS prescription charges, ensuring continued access to necessary treatments without the worry of additional costs each time. This is especially beneficial for people on long-term NHS medication, or with chronic conditions."
Daily Mirror
15-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Symptoms of contagious bug 'appear between 12 hours and eight days'
As the number of norovirus cases remain high, the public has been urged to avoid hospitals and care homes if experiencing symptoms Norovirus continues to spread across the UK, with case continuing to be high. For some months now, the public has been asked to help to try to curb the spread by avoiding hospitals and care homes if they are showing symptoms such as vomiting, nausea and diarrhoea. As with all bugs like this, the best method of stopping its spread is not to put others needlessly at risk to catch it. Niamh McMillan, pharmacy superintendent at Superdrug, shared expert advice on spotting early signs and staying protected, saying: "Symptoms of Norovirus can include severe nausea, diarrhoea, stomach cramps and vomiting. Norovirus is the most common type of virus which causes gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Norovirus is also referred to as the 'winter vomiting bug' due to its prevalence during the colder months, however it can be caught at any time of the year. "Typically the first signs of norovirus will appear between 12 hours to eight days. Ongoing diarrhoea and vomiting are the most common signs, however you may also experience headaches and lightheadedness." How to minimise the spread of norovirus While it's difficult to prevent catching norovirus, there are some small steps you can take to minimise the chances and also improve symptoms. Keep your distance Niamh explained: "Norovirus can be transmitted by coming into contact with someone suffering from the virus, contaminated surfaces and also food and water so try and keep areas around you clean and disinfected. A person suffering from norovirus is most contagious from the moment they start feeling to at least three days after recovery." Wash hands thoroughly She emphasised the importance of hygiene, saying: "Don't underestimate the benefit of washing your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap, for at least 20 seconds. This is particularly important if you've been in public areas, for example on public transport or if you've touched high-traffic surfaces such as door handles, lift buttons and railings." Rest and rehydrate On the topic of recovery, Niamh advised: "Norovirus can be exhausting, so it's important to get as much rest as possible. This illness also runs the risk of sufferers becoming dehydrated. Superdrug's Rehydration Sachets can help replace the essential fluids and salts that are lost through diarrhoea. Paracetamol can also help with aches and pains that can be experienced during norovirus." Niamh added that paracetamol, such as Superdrug's Own Brand Paracetamol, costs as little as 3p per caplet. Seek medical advice For those struggling with the illness, Niamh recommended: "Unfortunately there's no set time frame for the body to get over norovirus and instead you will need to wait for the virus to work itself out of your system. Seek further medical advice if norovirus symptoms worsen, including blood within diarrhoea, high temperature and if you can't keep fluids down."
Scotsman
05-05-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
Warning as low levels of this vitamin could increase dementia risk
Watch more of our videos on and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565 Visit Shots! now Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that helps maintain our brain function 🧠 Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... New research from the University of California San Francisco has suggested that low levels of Vitamin B12 could increase the risk of dementia. Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that helps maintain our brain function. There are estimated to be 982,000 people in the UK living with dementia. New research from the University of California San Francisco has suggested that low levels of Vitamin B12 could potentially be linked to dementia. Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient which helps us maintain brain function, however as we get older our body's ability to absorb it from food may decrease. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Participants in the study who had lower levels of B12 were found to have 'slower cognitive and visual processing needs.' With researchers recommending that based on their findings that the current requirements for vitamin B12 need updating. So, what are the symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency and how can you raise your levels of vitamin B12? Niamh McMillan, Superdrug's Pharmacy Superintendent, shares her top three tips on how to raise your levels. New research has suggested that low levels of Vitamin B2 deficiency are linked to cognitive dysfunction. | Pexels, Matthias Zomer What is vitamin B12? Vitamin B is a nutrient that is essential to our health. Niamh explains: 'Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient which helps maintain brain function and a deficiency may lead to cognitive decline and memory loss. 'As we age the body's ability to absorb Vitamin B12 from food may decrease, making regular monitoring of B12 levels especially important for older adults. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Early detection and intervention can help prevent potential cognitive decline and help improve overall quality of life.' What are the symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency? Symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency usually develop gradually but can get worse if the condition is not treated and symptoms are left to progress. Niamh explains that symptoms may include: 'Persistent tiredness and a general sense of weakness, memory problems, a feeling of numbness or pins and needles particularly in the hands and feet, mood changes, balance problems and pale skin.' If you suspect you may have low levels of vitamin B12 it's important to make an appointment with your GP. There are different blood tests they can do to determine a diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad How can you increase your vitamin B12 levels? If you have symptoms of low vitamin B12 there are ways your levels can be increased, Niamh shares three expert tips on how to raise Vitamin B12 levels. Eat B12 rich foods Food can be an essential source of vitamin B12, Niamh explains that eating foods that are high in B12 such as meat, fish, eggs and diary products can help increase our levels. She adds: 'For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, fortified foods such as plant-based milk, breakfast cereals and nutritional yeast can be good sources.' Take vitamin B12 supplements Daily vitamin B12 supplements can also help increase your vitamin levels, there are many options available, with the NHS explaining that someone who is suffering from Vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia treatment options include tablets or injections to help replace the missing vitamins. Check for underlying conditions Certain health conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders can have an impact on how our body absorbs vitamin B12, Niamh recommends: 'If you do suspect an underlying health concern, then seek medical advice from your local GP about testing options.' You can find out more about signs and symptoms of low B2 and how to increase your intake of B vitamins at
Scotsman
05-05-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
Warning as low levels of this vitamin could increase dementia risk
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that helps maintain our brain function 🧠 Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... New research from the University of California San Francisco has suggested that low levels of Vitamin B12 could increase the risk of dementia. Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that helps maintain our brain function. There are estimated to be 982,000 people in the UK living with dementia. New research from the University of California San Francisco has suggested that low levels of Vitamin B12 could potentially be linked to dementia. Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient which helps us maintain brain function, however as we get older our body's ability to absorb it from food may decrease. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Participants in the study who had lower levels of B12 were found to have 'slower cognitive and visual processing needs.' With researchers recommending that based on their findings that the current requirements for vitamin B12 need updating. So, what are the symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency and how can you raise your levels of vitamin B12? Niamh McMillan, Superdrug's Pharmacy Superintendent, shares her top three tips on how to raise your levels. New research has suggested that low levels of Vitamin B2 deficiency are linked to cognitive dysfunction. | Pexels, Matthias Zomer What is vitamin B12? Vitamin B is a nutrient that is essential to our health. Niamh explains: 'Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient which helps maintain brain function and a deficiency may lead to cognitive decline and memory loss. 'As we age the body's ability to absorb Vitamin B12 from food may decrease, making regular monitoring of B12 levels especially important for older adults. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Early detection and intervention can help prevent potential cognitive decline and help improve overall quality of life.' What are the symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency? Symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency usually develop gradually but can get worse if the condition is not treated and symptoms are left to progress. Niamh explains that symptoms may include: 'Persistent tiredness and a general sense of weakness, memory problems, a feeling of numbness or pins and needles particularly in the hands and feet, mood changes, balance problems and pale skin.' If you suspect you may have low levels of vitamin B12 it's important to make an appointment with your GP. There are different blood tests they can do to determine a diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad How can you increase your vitamin B12 levels? If you have symptoms of low vitamin B12 there are ways your levels can be increased, Niamh shares three expert tips on how to raise Vitamin B12 levels. Eat B12 rich foods Food can be an essential source of vitamin B12, Niamh explains that eating foods that are high in B12 such as meat, fish, eggs and diary products can help increase our levels. She adds: 'For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, fortified foods such as plant-based milk, breakfast cereals and nutritional yeast can be good sources.' Take vitamin B12 supplements Daily vitamin B12 supplements can also help increase your vitamin levels, there are many options available, with the NHS explaining that someone who is suffering from Vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia treatment options include tablets or injections to help replace the missing vitamins. Check for underlying conditions Certain health conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders can have an impact on how our body absorbs vitamin B12, Niamh recommends: 'If you do suspect an underlying health concern, then seek medical advice from your local GP about testing options.'
Scottish Sun
29-04-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
The 8 drugs you should NEVER take past their use-by date to avoid surprise pregnancy, horror infections – & even death
From antibiotics to EpiPens and weight loss jabs, check your risk today - and scroll down to find out why you shouldn't store medication in the bathroom BAD MEDICINE The 8 drugs you should NEVER take past their use-by date to avoid surprise pregnancy, horror infections – & even death RUN out of time to go to the GP for a new prescription or your local pharmacy to restock the medicine cabinet? It can be tempting to knock back drugs past their expiry date - but don't risk it. Advertisement 3 No medicine should be used past its expiry date, but some drugs are more dangerous than others Credit: Getty Niamh McMillan, Superdrug's pharmacy superintendent, tells Sun Health: 'It's recommended not to use any medication past its expiry date. 'NHS guidance recommends always checking expiry dates and avoiding expired medication.' A survey of 2,000 people by Censuswide for Chemist4U discovered 62 per cent of Brits do check the use-by date before taking medications, but 36 per cent thought they had taken expired meds. It may feel like a waste, binning drugs that are only a few days over, especially if it's a prescription you paid for, but it's not the same as eating food that looks and smells OK despite being past its best before date. Advertisement Niamh says: 'Medication should not be used past its expiry date due to a risk of reduced effectiveness and potential harm.' Key ones you should never take if expired are… 1. Antibiotics AROUND 30million antibiotic prescriptions are dispensed every year in the UK, and many of us keep hold of them in drawers at home after a course. 'But over time, antibiotics can become less effective, therefore they should not be taken once expired,' says Niamh. Dr Crystal Wyllie, GP at Asda Online Doctor, adds: 'You should never take expired antibiotics because not only are these less effective at treating infections, but they can also contribute to antibiotic resistance, making future infections harder to treat.' Advertisement Beware 3 of the most dangerous medicines in the world - including one found in almost EVERY home 2. Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g. EpiPens) ANYONE who is at risk of anaphylaxis - a life-threatening allergic reaction - should carry an EpiPen. But it's important to regularly check these have not expired. 'Always carry and use in-date pens, as the effectiveness of adrenaline degrades with time,' says Niamh. 3. Glyceryl trinitrate (used for treating angina) 'THIS medication becomes unstable and less effective after expiry, resulting in inadequate relief from chest pain (angina),' says Niamh. While not dangerous on it's own, it can be incredibly uncomfortable, with patients describing a squeezing feeling, or tightness, heaviness or pressure in the chest. Advertisement 4. Insulin THOUSANDS of people in the UK rely on insulin - a medicine that helps the body use glucose for energy. 'But once it has expired, it loses its strength, making it ineffective, which can be life-threatening,' says Niamh. 3 Injectable medicines like insulin and GLP-1s should not be taken beyond their use-by date Credit: Getty 5. Eye drops 'EYE drops can become contaminated after opening,' says Niamh. 'You should always check the product packaging for guidance on expiry after opening. Advertisement 'Even unopened bottles are ineffective or unsafe when used after the expiry date. 'Once expired, you should stop using them immediately.' 6. Biological medications (e.g. monoclonal antibodies) 'EXPIRED biological medications lose their potency after expiration and therefore should not be used past the expiry date,' says Niamh. These drugs are often used for immune disorders, asthma and cancer treatment. 7. Contraceptive pills THE pill remains the most popular form of prescribed contraceptive among women in England, with 3.1million taking the drug in 2017 to 2018. Advertisement But don't hold onto blister packs that are out of date. 'Expired birth control pills can also be less effective, increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy,' says Dr Wyllie. 8. Weight loss injectables 'YOU should also never use expired injectable medications, including weight loss jabs like GLP-1s, as these can be unsafe, ineffective and cause unexpected side effects,' says Dr Wyllie. This can include irritation and infection. 3 Expired contraceptive pills can increase your risk of unintended pregnancy Credit: Getty Advertisement THE RISKS OUT-of-date medications can not only work less well, they can make you unwell. Dr Wyllie says: 'While many expired medications simply become less effective and can't properly treat medical issues, some expired medicines can be harmful to your health, causing infections, for example. 'Cough syrups and other liquid medications that have bacterial growth can cause gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhoea and vomiting. 'Expired eye drops on the other hand can harbour bacteria and cause conjunctivitis.' If you experience any concerning side effects from taking expired medication, such as an infection or an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention Dr Crystal Wyllie Dr Wyllie adds: 'You should never use expired blood thinners, thyroid medications, and insulin. Advertisement 'After their expiration date, the safety and effectiveness of these medications can't be guaranteed, potentially leading to dangerous health complications.' For instance, with expired insulin, you can be at increased risk of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) which can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, which can be life threatening. SEEKING HELP IT'S wise to seek help if you think you might have taken drugs that are out of date. Dr Wyllie says: 'If you realise you've taken expired medication, stop using it immediately and speak to your doctor or pharmacist. 'They can assess the situation and advise you on the best course of action, including getting a new prescription or adjusting your dosage. Advertisement 'If you experience any concerning side effects from taking expired medication, such as an infection or an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.' Niamh adds: 'Taking expired versions can be harmful and you should seek urgent advice if you're concerned. 'When in doubt, contact a pharmacist or NHS 111 for further guidance.' How to really save money on medicines 1. Save cash with sachets So, is there any packaging you can buy to help your medicines last longer - and save you a bit of cash? For one thing, you can look out for pills in blister packs. These tend to protect medicines better because the contents are only exposed to air when you actually break them out. You can also save cash by opting for cough and cold remedies that come as powders in sachets which you mix up with water – as long as you store them properly in a dry, dark place. 2. Check the 'secret' nine-digit code on the packet There can be a big difference in cost between branded medicines, like painkillers, and brand name products. To find out if they are actually the same thing, look out for the nine number Product Licence on the side. If these are the same, they are the same medicine. So compare and opt for the one that costs less. 3. Sign up for a loyalty card Lots of pharmacies and chemist chains have discount cards to keep you coming back. Once you find one which offers decent money off over time, stick with it to rack up rewards. 4. Buy a prescription season ticket Depending on how many medicines you need every year, it could save you up to £350 annually to buy a prescription 'season ticket', known as a prescription prepayment certificate, from the NHS. You can pay either £32.05 for three months or £114.50 for a year for your season ticket. It will start saving you cash if you regularly need more than three items in three months, or 11 items in 12 months. 5. Save on HRT If you are a midlife woman who takes hormone replacement therapy (HRT), the costs can rack up. However to save cash, you can now apply online for a HRT Replacement Therapy Prescription Prepayment certificate. The cost of two prescriptions is £19.30. This will cover all your HRT costs for the year, saving you between £90 and £200, according to estimates. SKIP THE BIN PILLS out of date? Try not to chuck old medications or pill packets in the kitchen bin. Niamh says: 'You should not dispose of medications in the bin or down the toilet, as this can harm the environment. Advertisement 'Instead, take them to a community pharmacy - including Superdrug pharmacies - where they can be safely disposed of.' Even if they're in date, there are certain times when you should still get rid of meds. Dr Wyllie explains: 'Never use any medications that have changed in appearance, texture, or smell, as these can be signs that it is no longer safe.' SAFE STORAGE IT'S easier to track use by dates and make sure medications don't degrade ahead of time if you're storing them correctly in the first place. Niamh says: 'Expiry dates ensure that a medicine will work as intended up to that point, provided it's stored correctly. Advertisement 'Once a medicine has been opened, such as a bottle of liquid or eye drops, it will often have a shorter shelf life, e.g. 28 days after opening. 'Always check the label or patient information leaflet. 'Storing medication in hot, humid or bright conditions can cause medications to degrade faster, therefore it is always recommended to store them in a cool, dry place.' It might seem natural to store meds in the bathroom, but Dr Wyllie says it's not the best spot. 'The changes in humidity and temperature can cause medications to break down and lose their effectiveness,' the expert adds. Advertisement 'Instead, unless otherwise directed on the label, medications should be stored in a cool, dry place, like a dresser drawer, closet shelf, or kitchen cabinet away from heat and moisture. 'Always check the storage instructions for each medication.' She says you should also avoid combining different batches of the same medication. 'Instead, keep your medicine in its original container to keep track of expiration dates,' the doctor adds. 'If you use a pill organiser, always check expiration dates before transferring medications to ensure they are still safe to take.' Advertisement
