Latest news with #PillTime
Daily Mirror
01-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
Brits warned popular painkiller abroad 'could land you in jail'
A pharmacist has urged holidaymakers to check the rules on taking a drug which is popular in the UK, but regulated or banned in other countries A pharmacist has issued a stark warning to the millions of Brits who regularly take a medicine that is either banned or heavily regulated in several countries, including Greece and France. Co-codamol, which is a mixture of paracetamol and codeine, can be purchased in shops and is also prescribed to 3.5 million people. The medicine is available in three strengths, the lowest of which contains 8g of codeine to 500mg of paracetamol and can be purchased without a prescription. Higher doses (those with 15g and 30g of codeine) are available only with a doctor's authorisation. Despite its popularity in the UK, the drug is considered illegal in Greece and is obtainable only with a prescription. It is entirely prohibited in Ethiopia, and possession of it in the United Arab Emirates or China could land you in prison. In Thailand, it is classified as a category 2 narcotic. In Indonesia, Qatar, Singapore and Japan, it is either regulated or banned without specific licences or forms. Even with a prescription, bringing co-codamol into Mexico is forbidden, reports the Liverpool Echo. Since 2018, the drug has required a prescription in Australia and also necessitates one in France, Italy, India, Romania, Ireland, Canada, the US and Germany. A number of EU countries permit low-dose over-the-counter codeine (up to roughly 12 mg per unit), but only under the supervision of a pharmacist: these include Bulgaria, Cyprus, Denmark, France, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Romania and Slovenia. Peter Thnoia, superintendent pharmacist at online pharmacy PillTime, issued a stark warning for holidaymakers, saying: "Know the rules of the country you're travelling to, because you'd be surprised how many everyday tablets are banned or regulated abroad. "For example, co-codamol is available over the counter and in supermarkets here in the UK. But in Greece, the codeine element is treated as a controlled drug – so you can only bring it into the country with a prescription and a doctor's note. "If you're unsure on whether your medication is under restricted use in the country you're travelling to, then check the official embassy website for your destination. It will explain exactly what you can – and can't – bring into the country. "It's always best to be safe and check before you travel, so that you have all the essential medication you need to make sure your holiday is as enjoyable as possible." Peter also offered guidance on how to transport medications when flying: "Always keep your medication in your hand luggage, in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Security staff may need to verify it, especially if it's liquid or regulated. "If you're unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist for a supporting letter. This can be especially helpful when travelling with larger quantities."
Western Telegraph
29-06-2025
- Health
- Western Telegraph
Can you mix hay fever tablets with medication and alcohol?
Peter Thnoia, superintendent pharmacist at NHS-registered online pharmacy PillTime, is urging the public to double-check medication ingredients. He warns people taking sleeping tablets or tranquillisers, such as diazepam or zopiclone, face a "heightened risk of developing breathing difficulties" when these drugs are mixed with certain allergy treatments. Can you take hay fever tablets with other medications? While the NHS advises that it's generally okay to take hay fever tablets with other medications, it's always crucial to check for potential interactions and side effects. It's also wise to consult with a pharmacist or GP before taking hay fever tablets alongside other medications. Mr Thnoia, from PillTime, said: 'Hay fever is hitting the country hard, but taking these sedating-style tablets is a no-go if you're already taking medication to help you get to sleep. 'Not only will they both combine to sedate you, but it can impact breathing, and make you short of breath. 'It can also lead to dizziness and in extreme cases people could even fall unconscious.' The concern centres around first-generation antihistamines – the older type of hay fever medication commonly sold under brand names such as Piriton and Benadryl. These drugs are known for causing drowsiness, which can become dangerous when combined with other sedatives. How do I know which hay fever tablets to take? Non-drowsy antihistamines, such as loratadine, cetirizine, and fexofenadine, are widely available and generally safe to take alongside sleep aids or tranquillisers. Mr Thnoia continued: 'These are becoming increasingly common on shelves and are less likely to cross the blood-brain barrier, so shouldn't cause the same sedative effects.' Even SSRIs, the most commonly prescribed class of antidepressants - such as sertraline - may carry similar risks, particularly when combined with older-generation antihistamines. Can you drink alcohol while taking hay fever tablets? One of the most commonly mixed substances with antihistamines that isn't a medicine at all – but can have the same dangerous effect when combined – is alcohol. Recommended reading: And it's easy to forget while having a good time in the sun that you've had both in the same day. Mr Thnoia added: 'Alcohol significantly amplifies the sedative effect of first-generation hay fever tablets, which can result in severe impairment and lead to unconsciousness or serious accidents. 'Even non-drowsy antihistamines can occasionally react with alcohol, depending on individual sensitivity, so it's best to avoid alcohol altogether if you're thinking of allergy medication.'
Leader Live
29-06-2025
- Health
- Leader Live
Can you mix hay fever tablets with medication and alcohol?
Peter Thnoia, superintendent pharmacist at NHS-registered online pharmacy PillTime, is urging the public to double-check medication ingredients. He warns people taking sleeping tablets or tranquillisers, such as diazepam or zopiclone, face a "heightened risk of developing breathing difficulties" when these drugs are mixed with certain allergy treatments. While the NHS advises that it's generally okay to take hay fever tablets with other medications, it's always crucial to check for potential interactions and side effects. It's also wise to consult with a pharmacist or GP before taking hay fever tablets alongside other medications. Mr Thnoia, from PillTime, said: 'Hay fever is hitting the country hard, but taking these sedating-style tablets is a no-go if you're already taking medication to help you get to sleep. 'Not only will they both combine to sedate you, but it can impact breathing, and make you short of breath. 'It can also lead to dizziness and in extreme cases people could even fall unconscious.' The concern centres around first-generation antihistamines – the older type of hay fever medication commonly sold under brand names such as Piriton and Benadryl. These drugs are known for causing drowsiness, which can become dangerous when combined with other sedatives. Non-drowsy antihistamines, such as loratadine, cetirizine, and fexofenadine, are widely available and generally safe to take alongside sleep aids or tranquillisers. Mr Thnoia continued: 'These are becoming increasingly common on shelves and are less likely to cross the blood-brain barrier, so shouldn't cause the same sedative effects.' Even SSRIs, the most commonly prescribed class of antidepressants - such as sertraline - may carry similar risks, particularly when combined with older-generation antihistamines. One of the most commonly mixed substances with antihistamines that isn't a medicine at all – but can have the same dangerous effect when combined – is alcohol. Recommended reading: What is thunder fever and how does it affect your hay fever? 5 drinks that could help hay fever symptoms amid pollen bomb The hay fever hack all sufferers should know to avoid a season of the sniffles And it's easy to forget while having a good time in the sun that you've had both in the same day. Mr Thnoia added: 'Alcohol significantly amplifies the sedative effect of first-generation hay fever tablets, which can result in severe impairment and lead to unconsciousness or serious accidents. 'Even non-drowsy antihistamines can occasionally react with alcohol, depending on individual sensitivity, so it's best to avoid alcohol altogether if you're thinking of allergy medication.'
Daily Mirror
25-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
Important 14-day deadline for anyone taking tablets on holiday
Millions of Brits are preparing for summer holidays but a leading pharmacist is warning that some everyday UK prescriptions could be banned overseas As the UK anticipates the summer holiday season, a leading pharmacist has issued a crucial warning to those planning to travel with medicines. Peter Thnoia of PillTime urges holidaymakers to think ahead or face potential complications due to stringent drug regulations in various destinations. Highlighting that common UK prescriptions could be prohibited abroad, Peter is alerting travellers about the danger of leaving medication arrangements to the last minute. With school holidays approaching, he stresses the necessity for people to order their medications no less than a fortnight prior to departure. Peter also underscores the significance of carrying appropriate documents for your medication to avoid the inconvenience of confiscation at the airport. He prompts tourists to research the specific pharmaceutical laws of their destination, particularly as certain meds like Co-codamol may be restricted in some countries, reports the Liverpool Echo. Peter urges people going abroad to process their prescription orders at least two weeks before their holidays and alert their GP of any unusual early requests. "We'd always recommend people put in their prescription requests around two weeks before, but if you're ordering earlier than normal, your GP might flag or reject the request," Peter advises. "If that's the case, then you need to contact your GP in good time, explaining your holiday, so they can approve the request." With over a quarter-century of experience in the pharmacy sector, Peter highlights that many people leave prescriptions until the last minute, causing unnecessary stress before a trip. "Pharmacies are accustomed to busy periods, but late requests add pressure for everyone," he said. "Ordering well in advance helps us deliver your medication without any hitches - and gives you peace of mind as your holiday draws near." However, it's not just about timely ordering. Peter also advises travellers on the correct way to carry medication to avoid complications at security or border control. "Always keep your medication in your hand luggage, in its original packaging with the prescription label intact," he says. "Security staff may need to verify it, particularly if it's liquid or regulated," he added. "If you're unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist for a supporting letter. This can be particularly useful when travelling with larger quantities." When going abroad with medication, it is essential to confirm that you can transport it legally and safely. Always keep your medication in its original packaging, complete with the prescription label, and include a doctor's letter if necessary. Make sure to pack your medication in your hand luggage for easy access and to reduce the chances of loss or damage. Review the regulations of the airline and the destination country, particularly concerning controlled substances and liquids exceeding 100ml. What medication could cause issues? As the six-week holiday period approaches, Peter shares a simple tip to ensure your holiday goes 'without a hitch'. He says: "Know the rules of the country you're travelling to, because you'd be surprised how many everyday tablets are banned or regulated abroad." He went on to say: "For example, Co-codamol is available over the counter and in supermarkets here in the UK. But in Greece, the codeine element is treated as a controlled drug – so you can only bring it into the country with a prescription and a doctor's note." Open Prescribing data reveals that more than 3.5 million prescriptions for Co-codamol have been issued in the first quarter of this year (January-March 2025). While lower strengths of Co-codamol can be purchased without a prescription in the UK, higher doses necessitate one. This implies that millions of Brits who depend on this medication for pain relief could potentially run afoul of foreign laws if they take their medication abroad. Some countries have restrictions or outright bans on drugs like codeine, tramadol, and loperamide. Japan: Has intricate regulations concerning prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Some widely used allergy and cold treatments, including those with pseudoephedrine, are either prohibited or necessitate special authorisation. Attempting to bring in banned drugs may lead to arrest. Indonesia: Prohibits medications that contain codeine and tramadol. Qatar: Certain over-the-counter cold treatments require a prescription. India, Pakistan, Turkey: Maintain stringent lists of banned medications, and travellers are advised to consult their respective embassies prior to carrying any drugs. United Arab Emirates: Enforces strict regulations on numerous prescription medications, including those with codeine, tramadol, and specific anxiety drugs. Certain countries also enforce stringent regulations on medications containing pseudoephedrine and other components commonly found in cold and allergy remedies. Pseudoephedrine, a key ingredient in decongestants such as Sudafed, is often regulated due to concerns about its potential misuse in the illegal production of substances, particularly methamphetamine. What should you do? Peter recommends: "If you're unsure whether your medication is restricted in the country you're travelling to, then check the official embassy website for your destination. It will explain exactly what you can and cannot bring into the country. It's always best to be safe and check before you travel so that you have all the essential medication you need to make sure your holiday is as enjoyable as possible." Do consult with your GP regarding any trips abroad and the medicines you'll need to bring along. Your doctor can provide a letter explaining why certain medications are necessary and may offer alternative solutions if needed. Always carry medications in their original containers with labels visible. It's also wise to request any permits or certificates in good time before setting off. Be prepared for inspections at customs by declaring any medication, which might mean enduring some delays.
Daily Record
29-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Pharmacist warns of dangers of mixing hay fever pills with common medication
As the weather gets warmer, a pharmacist has issued a warning that people may be putting their health at risk by combing hay fever tablets with certain every day medicines A pharmacist has issued a warning that people may be unknowingly risking their health by combining hay fever tablets with everyday medications. Peter Thnoia, SuperIntendent Pharmacist at PillTime, is encouraging people to double-check medication ingredients as sales of allergy remedies surge with the arrival of warmer weather. He warns those taking sleeping tablets or tranquillisers, such as diazepam or zopiclone, that they face an increased risk of developing breathing difficulties when these drugs are combined with certain allergy treatments. "Hay fever is hitting the country hard, but taking these sedating-style tablets is a no-go if you're already taking medication to help you get to sleep", warns Peter. "Not only will they both combine to sedate you, but it can impact breathing, and make you short of breath. It can also lead to dizziness and in extreme cases people could even fall unconscious." The concern revolves around first-generation antihistamines – the older type of hay fever medication commonly sold under brand names such as Piriton and Benadryl. However, Peter suggests that safer alternatives are available. Non-drowsy antihistamines like loratadine, cetirizine, and fexofenadine are widely accessible and generally safe to take alongside sleep aids or tranquillisers. "These are becoming increasingly common on shelves and are less likely to cross the blood-brain barrier, so shouldn't cause the same sedative effects", he adds. Peter also warns that it's not just sleeping tablets that can create a harmful combination. Certain antidepressants, when mixed with drowsy hay fever tablets, can lead to sedation issues – and in the most severe cases can cause heart rhythm problems if taken over an extended period of time. He explains: "Tricyclic antidepressants – or TCAs, as they're known – are like sleeping tablets in that they're a powerful sedative, so anyone who takes them and then takes a drowsy hay fever tablet runs the risk of developing serious side effects. "Both medications are anticholinergic too, so taking both means people could start to see other issues, like dry mouth, blurred vision and constipation." Even SSRIs, the most commonly prescribed class of antidepressants - such as sertraline - may carry similar risks, particularly when combined with older-generation antihistamines." Peter added: "SSRIs are some of the most common antidepressants prescribed, so many people are surprised to see that they can react badly when combined with everyday tablets to tackle allergies. "Each drug under the SSRI umbrella will have a sliding scale of side effects when it comes to drowsiness, but each one will have sedative properties, which is why it's recommended that you go for a non-drowsy medication when suffering from hay fever." Peter also warns against mixing one particular substance with antihistamines that isn't a medicine but can have a dangerously similar effect. He said: " Alcohol significantly amplifies the sedative effect of first-generation hay fever tablets, which can result in severe impairment and lead to unconsciousness or serious accidents. "Even non-drowsy antihistamines can occasionally react with alcohol, depending on individual sensitivity, so it's best to avoid alcohol altogether if you're thinking of allergy medication."
