Packing on overseas holidays can be a difficult task. It's easy to remember essentials like clothes and toiletries, but what about those unexpected situations?
Planning every unforeseen situation is not always easy. You may also need something that is not readily available. According to one pharmacist, there are certain medications that you should consider packing from home to avoid unnecessary stress on holidays.
Irish pharmacist Ashley Ó Duvine, also known on social media platforms, has revealed that people are frequently asked “drugs to pack up” “drugs.” He reassures travelers that he doesn't “do it weird,” but as pharmacies will be accessible at destination, he suggests six items to consider based on his “his experience” and knowledge of what is available overseas.
If you are heading to your destination in a hotter and humid climate than you're used to, Ashley suggests packing some electrolytes regardless of brand. Electrolytes are important to maintain fluid balance and ensure that muscles and nerves function properly.
When you lose electrolytes from sweat, it is important to replenish your lost sodium, especially if you are sweating too much.
Additionally, he recommends bringing in antihistamines such as Zirtek, Telfast, Clarityn, or other brands that suit your body.
Ashley highlighted the benefits of common treatments. “This is good for insect bites, but it's also good for example when it responds to food or the sun. It can help with that heat rash, for example.”
For travelers unfamiliar with local cuisine, Ashley recommends stocking up on Imodium, an important over-the-counter drug that can quickly stop diarrhea and “stop” unpleasant results.
When discussing treatment for insect bites, Ashley usually prescribes wiggling, but it's important to note that hydrocortisone creams like Coltpine are easily available without a prescription.
Nevertheless, Ashley said, “Ask your pharmacist if you are allowed to take it, as if everyone doesn't. If steroid creams aren't for you, you can get some Anshan creams.”
In preparation for travel destinations with suspicious food and water quality, Ashley suggests starting with probiotics a few weeks in advance, as it is said to follow the advice of the NHS and reset the natural balance and bacteria in the gut.
Ashley also recommended painkiller relief options and listed alternatives such as paracetamol, panadol, nurophen and ibuprofen as essentials for any travel.
It is important that you consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking your medication, as something suitable for others may not be suitable for you.
