As the festive season approaches, health experts are urging the public to be aware of hidden dangers that could turn comfort and joy into a holiday hazard. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued crucial safety advice covering everything from traditional Christmas dinners to seasonal skincare routines.
Festive Foods and Medication Mix-Ups
The agency highlights that some classic Christmas foods can interfere with the effectiveness of certain prescription drugs. Traditional vegetables like Brussels sprouts and broccoli, staples of the festive plate, are high in vitamin K. This nutrient can reduce the blood-thinning effect of the common anticoagulant medication, warfarin.
"These foods should not be avoided altogether – instead, try to eat consistent amounts so your vitamin K levels remain steady," the MHRA advised. For those on monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, used to treat depression and Parkinson's disease, other festive treats are on the watch list. Aged cheeses, dark chocolate, smoked fish, and even gravy granules contain tyramine, which can cause a dangerous sudden rise in blood pressure.
Hidden Fire Risks and Online Dangers
Beyond the dinner table, a common winter skincare product presents an unexpected risk. Medical emollient creams, often used for conditions like eczema, can soak into clothing and fabrics, making them more flammable. The MHRA warns users to stay well away from open flames, candles, and other heat sources.
Dr Alison Cave, the chief safety officer at the MHRA, emphasised the need for vigilance: "The festive season is a time to come together, share traditions, and make lasting memories. But as we fill our homes with light, warmth, and cheer, it’s important we don’t forget safety – especially around medicines and medical products."
The agency also cautioned against the online purchase of weight-loss medications as a quick fix for the new year. Products from unregulated sites may be fake or contaminated, leading to serious side effects like heart problems or dangerously low blood sugar. These should only be bought with a legitimate prescription.
Staying Safe During the Celebrations
With coughs and colds circulating, the MHRA reminded people to check labels and avoid taking multiple remedies containing the same active ingredient, such as paracetamol. The interaction between alcohol and medicines that cause drowsiness was also flagged, with a specific warning for users of mobility scooters or powered wheelchairs.
Professor Victoria Tzortziou-Brown, chair of the Royal College of GPs, endorsed the MHRA's guidance. She suggested patients refresh their knowledge by reading patient information leaflets, checking the NHS website, or speaking to a pharmacist. "The MHRA is right to highlight the risks of purchasing cheap ‘medical’ or cosmetic Christmas gifts online," she said. "If an offer seems too good to be true, it usually is."
