Stay Safe This Summer: 5 Key Tips for Medicines and Devices

15 August, 2024

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) provides essential guidance for the safe use of medicines and medical devices during the summer season. These tips aim to help the public navigate potential risks associated with warmer weather and holiday travel.

Introduction

With the arrival of summer, it’s crucial to be aware of how the season can affect your health, particularly if you are taking medicines or using medical devices. The MHRA offers five key tips to ensure you stay safe while enjoying the sun and your travels.

Key Tips for Summer Safety

Beware of Unapproved Hay Fever Treatments

Overview: Hay fever is a common summer ailment, with numerous treatments available. However, some treatments, like Kenalog injections, are not approved for hay fever in the UK.
Advice: Always consult a healthcare professional before choosing a treatment. Be cautious of online or private clinics advertising unapproved treatments.
Regulation: Advertising prescription-only medicines like Kenalog for hay fever is illegal. The MHRA has enforced actions against clinics promoting such treatments.

Travelling with Implanted Medical Devices

Precaution: If you have an implanted medical device, such as a pacemaker or glucose monitor, be mindful when passing through airport security.
Guidance: Carry your device registration card and inform security personnel. While metal detectors and body scanners generally do not interfere, hand-held wands should be used cautiously.
Special Considerations: Some devices, like certain infusion pumps, should avoid exposure to screening equipment. Check with your device manufacturer before travelling.

Sunlight Reactions to Medicines

Risk: Certain medicines, like methotrexate, can cause severe skin reactions when exposed to sunlight.
Protection: Avoid sun exposure during peak hours (11 am to 3 pm), use high-factor sun protection, and wear protective clothing.
Action: Report any unusual skin reactions to your healthcare provider or through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

Assess Suitability of Medicines for Tropical Diseases

Importance: Traveling to tropical areas may expose you to diseases like malaria and yellow fever, requiring medication or vaccination.
Guidance: While these medicines are generally safe, they may not be suitable for everyone. For example, the yellow fever vaccine carries risks for those with weakened immunity or older adults.
Consultation: Discuss with your healthcare provider to ensure these medicines are appropriate for you.

Avoid Fake Weight Loss Medicines

Warning: The internet is rife with counterfeit medicines, including fake weight loss drugs like Ozempic. These can be harmful.
Safety: Only use weight loss medicines prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional. Verify online pharmacies through the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).
Resources: For more information, visit the #FakeMeds campaign to learn how to safely purchase medicines online.

Conclusion

By following these five tips, you can help ensure that your summer is both enjoyable and safe. Whether managing hay fever, traveling with a medical device, or protecting yourself from counterfeit medicines, the MHRA provides the guidance needed to safeguard your health during the holiday season.