People on the common medication are being issued an alert by a doctor
Doctor warns “don’t forget your regular medicines” and issued “three checks to make” alert(Image: Getty)
A doctor has issued a health alert to anyone taking three common types of medication via an NHS repeat prescription. The three medications included in the alert are the contraceptive pill, type 2 diabetes medicine and inhalers for anyone diagnosed with asthma.
In the UK, the pill is among the most commonly prescribed contraceptives on the NHS, and it is free. Meanwhile, more than 5.8 million people in the UK are living with diabetes, according to Diabetes UK, and up to 7.2 million people have asthma, with millions using inhalers as a core treatment.
During December, obtaining your usual NHS prescription can cause issues due to increased demand and bank holiday closures over the Christmas and New Year period. GP practices and pharmacies often have reduced opening hours, leading to processing delays.
As Christmas approaches and diaries fill up, high street health chemist Superdrug is urging the nation not to let regular medicines slip in the festive rush. With last-minute shopping, travel, parties and changes to routine, many people only realise they’re running low on repeat prescriptions when it’s too late, especially with GP and pharmacy opening hours reduced over the holidays.
Dr Babak Ashrafi, MBBS, who works at Superdrug’s Online Doctor, explains: “Every Christmas we see people caught out by the same thing: they’ve been so busy that they forget to reorder their regular medication. When routines change, doses get missed, and pharmacy closures can make it harder to sort quickly. A bit of planning now can save a lot of stress and help you stay well through the holidays.”
Millions of people take the medication in the UK, with high demand likely over ChristmasDr Babak’s three checks to make before the big day1. Check your supply and order early
The health expert said: “Count how many tablets, doses or sprays you’ve got left and make sure they’ll last through Christmas and New Year, including any time away from home. If you’re running low, order your repeat prescription as soon as possible.”
He warned: “GP surgeries and pharmacies may have reduced hours, and deliveries can be slower in December. Aim to reorder one to two weeks before you’ll run out.”
2. Don’t forget your ‘sometimes’ meds
“Take a moment to check any treatments you use only as needed, like asthma reliever inhalers, eczema creams or allergy meds,” the doctor added. “These can run out unexpectedly, so if you might need them over the holidays, make sure you’ve got a spare to hand.”
3. Plan for routine changes and travel
If you’re travelling, pack enough medication for the entire trip, Dr Babak says, plus a few extra days, and keep essentials in your carry-on luggage. If your routine will be different (late nights, lie-ins, busy days), set phone alarms or app reminders to avoid missed doses.
“It’s also worth reading your patient leaflet now so you know what to do if you do miss one,” he said. “Speak to a pharmacist or clinician if you’re unsure.”
Preparing in advance can help you avoid health issues over the festive period Extra reminders for common winter medicines
Contraceptive pill: Missing pills can reduce protection and increase the risk of pregnancy. If you’re due to run out around Christmas, order your next supply early. If a pill is missed, follow the instructions in your leaflet carefully and take extra precautions if advised.
Asthma inhalers: Cold air, winter viruses and seasonal triggers can worsen symptoms. Check that your preventer and reliever inhalers are up to date, have enough doses left, and are easily accessible, especially if you’re travelling or staying overnight.
Type 2 diabetes medication: Keeping diabetes medication on track over Christmas is especially important. If you use insulin or other glucose-lowering treatments, check you’ve got enough to last through the festive period, including any time away from home. Make sure to re-order repeat prescriptions well in advance.