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 GENERIC MEDICINES EXPLAINED

Generic medicines are copies of an original branded medicine.

Doctors are encouraged to prescribe generically because:

• Generic medicines are cheaper for the HSE. A huge amount of money could be saved if only generic medicines were used. This money could then be better spent on other areas of our health service.
• A huge proportion of generic drugs are manufactured here in Ireland. In the current economic climate it is important to support local jobs and companies whenever possible.
• The generic name is the name doctors & pharmacists are trained to use, and these are the names hospital doctors always use. There are often many brand names for one medicine. Possible confusion or mistakes are reduced if everyone uses the same name when talking about and prescribing medicines.

Generic medicines are produced by companies who are subject to the same tight controls as companies who make branded products. In fact branded and generic medicines are often made by the same company.

Generic medicines contain the same active ingredients, are of the same dosage form, and are identical in strength to the original medicine. They are therapeutically equivalent to their branded equivalent. This means that they work in the same way in the body and are associated with the same risks and benefits of the original medicine. Different generic forms of the same medicine will not differ in their safety and clinical actions, from each other or their branded equivalent. The Government employs a team of doctors, scientists and pharmacists who check the product to ensure it has been made to a high quality and is safe and effective. In Ireland the licensing authority is the Irish Medicines Board (IMB) (www.imb.ie).

Generic medicines may differ in their inactive ingredients – excipients – from the equivalent brand. This can affect the colour, shape, size and sometimes taste. This, however, is only the outward appearance and does not affect the active ingredient. The packaging will also look different. You may notice this if you take regular medicines and your present supply looks different. Discuss any concerns with your pharmacist.

Drug companies spend millions of euro developing new drugs. This cost has to be passed on to consumers. Generic companies do not have all the initial research and development costs the originator company has. This allows them to sell their medicines at a cheaper price. Generic products are not made to a lower standard. The IMB inspects manufacturers facilities to ensure all medicines, both branded and generic, are made to the same high standard.

You will get the same high quality medicine but at a reduced price. Branded products can be as much as 60% more expensive than generic equivalents, so the savings to you can be very significant. If you do not have to pay for your medicines then you should be happy in the knowledge that the savings made will be used to fund other essential health services.

 SWINE FLU

Swine flu is also known as Pandemic (H1N1) 2009

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) says the new swine flu virus is highly contagious and is spreading from person to person.

Swine flu spreads in the same way as ordinary colds and flu. The virus is spread through the droplets that come out of the nose or mouth when someone coughs or sneezes.

If someone coughs or sneezes and does not cover it, those droplets can spread about one metre (3ft). If you are very close to them you might breathe these in.

If someone coughs or sneezes into their hand, those droplets and the virus within them are easily transferred to surfaces that the person touches, such as door handles, hand rails, phones and keyboards. If you touch these surfaces and touch your face, the virus can enter your system and you can become infected.

The flu virus can live on a hard surface for up to 24 hours and a soft surface for around 20 minutes.

According to the Health Protection Agency, the incubation period for swine flu (the time between infection and appearance of symptoms) can be up to seven days, but it is most likely to be between two and five days. But it is currently too early to be able to provide details on virus characteristics, including incubation period, with total certainty.

People are most infectious soon after they develop symptoms. They can continue to shed (spread) the virus (for example, in coughs and sneezes) for up to five days (seven days in children). People become less infectious as their symptoms subside, and once their symptoms are gone they are no longer considered infectious to others.

It is highly likely that an increase in cases will occur in the autumn (as schools return) or winter this year.

Recognising the Symptoms

It can be difficult at times to distinguish between the common cold and influenza. The main difference is that the symptoms of influenza come on rapidly and are typically accompanied by muscle aches and a fever. The common cold has a more gradual onset and is associated with a runny nose and sneezing. An important additional feature of Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 is that diarrhoea and vomiting occur occasionally. The table below lists the major differences between the two

Symptom	Swine Flu -(Pandemic (H1N1) 2009)	Cold
Sudden Symptoms	The flu has a rapid onset within 3-6 hours. The flu hits hard and includes sudden symptoms like high fever, aches and pains.	Cold symptoms tend to develop over a few days.
Fever	High fever - temperature over 38°C/100°F. Fever is usually present with the flu (in up to 90% of all flu cases).	Fever is rare with a cold and mild when present (between 37°C & 38.3°C)
Coughing	Sudden Dry Cough: A non-productive (non-mucus producing) cough is usually present with the flu.	Chesty Cough: A hacking, productive (mucus- producing) cough is often present with a cold.
Aches	Severe aches and pains are common with the flu.	Slight body aches and pains can be part of a cold.
Runny/Stuffy Nose	Runny nose is common. Stuffy nose is not commonly present with the flu.	Stuffy and/or runny nose is commonly present with a cold and typically resolves spontaneously within a week.
Chills	60% of people who have the flu experience chills.	Chills are uncommon with a cold.
Tiredness	Tiredness is moderate to severe with the flu.	Tiredness is fairly mild with a cold.
Sneezing	Sneezing is common with swine flu.	Sneezing is commonly present with a cold.
Headache	A headache is very common with the flu, present in 80% of flu cases.	A headache is fairly uncommon with a cold.
Sore Throat	Sore throat sometimes present with the flu.	Sore throat is commonly present with a cold.
Chest Discomfort	Chest discomfort is often severe with the flu.	Chest discomfort is mild to moderate with a cold.
Diarrhoea/ Vomiting	May occur	Not associated with common cold in adults

Most people with flu will be able to recover at home within a few days without needing anti-viral medicine or medical care. It is important that you:

• Take paracetamol/ibuprofen or other cough and cold remedies to relieve flu-like symptoms (always check with your pharmacist)
• Stay at home for up to 7 days or until 24 hours after symptoms disappear
• Drink plenty of clear fluids (such as water, electrolyte beverages e.g. Dioralyte®, sports drinks) to keep from being dehydrated
• Wash hard surfaces such as kitchen worktops, door handles, etc. with a regular household cleaner as the virus can live on these surfaces
• Discourage any visitors

People with SEVERE symptoms, or who are in a high risk group (see below), need to contact their GP/family doctor by telephone. They will decide if they need testing or treatment.

High risk group:

• People who have chronic lung, heart, kidney, liver and neurological disease.
• People with diabetes mellitus.
• People whose immune system is reduced by disease or medication.
• People on medication for asthma.
• Pregnant women.
• Children under 5 years (children under 2 years are at particular risk).
• People aged 65 years and over.
• Severely obese people (BMI>40).

Should a GP prescribe anti-viral treatment the prescription can be dispensed at any pharmacy. Tamiflu®, when used for the treatment of this flu is free of charge to all.

Stay at home. Do not travel or go to work or school. Seek medical advice - Contact your GP/family doctor by telephone OR call Flu Information line on FREEPHONE1800 941100

Avoid close contact with others for 7 days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer.

If you are worried about your symptoms, contact your health care provider. If you experience any of the following warning signs, you should seek emergency medical care.

In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Fast breathing or trouble breathing.
• Bluish skin colour.
• Not drinking enough fluids.
• Not waking up or not interacting.
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held.
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough.
• Fever with a rash.

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen.
• Sudden dizziness.
• Confusion.
• Severe or persistent vomiting.

People with swine flu who are cared for at home, should:

• Check with their GP about any special care they might need if they are in a high risk group (see above) e.g. pregnant or have a health condition such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma, kidney, liver and neurological disease, or if their immune system is reduced by disease or medication.
• Check with their GP about whether they should take antiviral medications.
• Stay home for 7 days after their symptoms begin or until they have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer, except to seek medical care.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Drink clear fluids (such as water, electrolyte drinks/Dioralyte®, sports drinks) to keep from being dehydrated.
• Cover coughs and sneezes. Clean hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub often and especially after using tissues and after coughing or sneezing into hands.
• Avoid close contact with others – do not go to work or school while ill, discourage any visitors.
• Avoid caring for infants and other groups at high risk for complications of influenza if at all possible.

If you are the caregiver

• Keep the sick person in a room separate from the common areas of the house. (For example, a spare bedroom with its own bathroom, if possible.)
• Remind the sick person to cover their coughs, and clean their hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub often, especially after coughing and/or sneezing.
• Avoid being face-to-face with the sick person. If you must have close contact with the sick person, spend the least amount of time possible in close contact and wear a facemask when entering the sick person’s room.
• When holding small children who are sick, place their chin on your shoulder so that they will not cough in your face.
• Have everyone in the household clean their hands often, using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub (minimum 60% alcohol), including after every contact with the sick person or the person’s room or bathroom. Children may need reminders or help keeping their hands clean.
• If you are at high risk of flu associated complications, you should not be the designated caretaker, if possible.
• If you are in a high risk group for complications from flu, you should attempt to avoid close contact (within 6 feet) with household members who are sick with flu. Designate a person who is not at high risk of flu associated complications as the primary caretaker of household members who are sick with flu, if at all possible. If close contact with a sick individual is unavoidable, consider wearing a facemask, if available and tolerable.
• Avoid having pregnant women care for the sick person. (Pregnant women are at increased risk of flu-related complications and immunity can be suppressed during pregnancy).
• Try to maintain good ventilation in shared household areas (e.g., keeping windows open in living room, kitchen, bathroom, etc.) if possible.
• Throw away tissues and other disposable items used by the sick person in the bin. Always wash your hands after touching used tissues.
• Keep surfaces (especially bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, and toys for children) clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant.
• Linens, eating utensils, and dishes belonging to those who are sick do not need to be cleaned separately, but importantly these items should not be shared without washing thoroughly first.
• Wash linens (such as bed sheets and towels) by using household laundry detergent (and/or tumble dry) on a hot setting. Avoid “hugging” laundry prior to washing it to prevent contaminating yourself. Clean your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub right after handling dirty laundry.
• Eating utensils should be washed either in a dishwasher or by hand with water and soap/detergent.

Monitor yourself and household members for flu symptoms and call Flu Information line on FREEPHONE 1800 941100 OR contact your GP by telephone if symptoms occur.

The following information is for people with underlying conditions that can put them at an increased risk of catching the flu or of experiencing more severe symptoms.

1. People with heart disease, stroke and cardiovascular disease

• Do not stop taking your medications without first consulting your doctor, especially in the event of flu or a respiratory infection.
• People with heart failure should be alert to changes in their breathing and should promptly report changes to their doctor.
• It is especially important to wash your hands often with soap and water and follow other basic hygiene to avoid infection.

2. People with asthma or COPD

If you do catch a respiratory infection, including swine flu, it may add to any breathing difficulties you have. It is therefore all the more important that you follow good hygiene practices and contact your doctor if you develop flu-like symptoms.

3. People with diabetes

• Being sick by itself can raise your blood glucose. Moreover, illness can prevent you from eating properly, which further affects blood glucose. In addition, diabetes can make the immune system more vulnerable to severe cases of the flu. People with diabetes who come down with the flu may become very sick and may even have to go to a hospital.
• Be sure to continue taking your diabetes medication or insulin. Don’t stop taking them even if you can’t eat. In some cases, your doctor may even advise you to take more insulin during sickness.
• Test your blood glucose every four hours, and keep track of the results.
• Drink extra (calorie-free) liquids, and try to eat as you normally would. If you can’t, try to have soft foods and liquids containing the equivalent amount of carbohydrates that you usually consume.
• Weigh yourself every day. Losing weight without trying is a sign of high blood glucose.
• Check your temperature every morning and evening. A fever may be a sign of infection.
• Call your GP/family doctor or go to an emergency room if any of the following happen to you:
  - You feel too sick to eat normally and are unable to keep down food for more than 6 hours.
  - You are having severe diarrhoea.
  - You lose 5 pounds or more.
  - Your temperature is over 38.3º C or 101º F.
  - You have moderate or large amounts of ketones in your urine.
  - You are having trouble breathing.
  - You feel sleepy or can't think clearly.

4. Pregnancy

• If you are pregnant, you can reduce your risk of infection by avoiding unnecessary travel and avoiding crowds where possible, and following the general hygiene advice.
• If you think that you may have swine flu, call your doctor for an assessment immediately. Your doctor will decide whether you need antiviral medication. The risk of taking antiviral tablets during pregnancy has been reviewed and proven to be extremely small. It is much smaller than the risk posed by the symptoms of swine flu.
• Unless you have swine flu symptoms, carry on attending your antenatal appointments so that you can monitor the progress of your pregnancy.

5. Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding protects babies. Breast milk passes on antibodies from the mother to a baby, which in turn help fight off infection. This is really important in young babies when their immune system is still growing.

• Do not stop breastfeeding if you are ill. Breastfeed often and limit formula feeds if you can. This will help protect your baby from infection.
• Be careful not to cough or sneeze in the baby’s face, wash your hands often with soap and water.
• Your doctor might ask you to wear a mask to keep from spreading this new virus to your baby.
• If you are too sick to breastfeed, pump and have someone give the expressed milk to your baby.
• If your doctor prescribes antiviral medicine for treatment of this flu, you can continue nursing your baby while taking this medication.

Current information provided by HSE is that Ireland has advance orders in place for influenza A (H1N1) vaccines (7.7 million doses) for the Irish population. This will deliver 2 separate doses to each member of the population. Those who have been infected with the virus will not receive the vaccine. The vaccine should become available to Ireland in the later part of this year, from September/October 2009. It will be delivered in stages, so it will be offered to high risk people first, along with healthcare staff and other essential workers.

• If you get seasonal or new H1N1 flu, antiviral drugs can be used for treatment. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. You should take these antiviral medicines if your doctor recommends them.
• Antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications.
• Antiviral drugs may be especially important for people who are very sick with the flu or for people who are sick and have a health condition that places them at greater risk of flu complications.
• For maximum effectiveness, antiviral drugs should be taken as soon as possible after symptoms begin.

The following is a list of items that you could consider having at home:

• A thermometer (preferably one with disposable covers to prevent cross-infection e.g. Braun Thermoscan).
• Tissues.
• Cold and cough remedies (always check suitability with your pharmacist).
• Alcohol based hand gel, washes or wipes.
• Face masks (if you are a caregiver).
• Antibacterial surface sprays.
• Echinacea or vitamin C to boost immune systems.

Tamiflu®:

• Your doctor may decide, depending on the severity of your symptoms and/or taking account of other risk factors to prescribe the antiviral tablet, Tamiflu®.
• This will be dispensed free of charge in your local pharmacy.
• Please follow the instructions given and complete the course.
• Do not share this medicine with anyone even if they are showing similar symptoms.

Tamiflu® Capsules for children:

• Unfortunately Tamiflu® suspension for children is not commercially available so capsules will generally be used for children.
• Repeat this procedure every time you need to give the medicine to your child.
• Check the pharmacy dispensing label to check the correct dose is a full capsule. (If the dose is less than one full capsule your pharmacist should explain a different method to allow you to measure the correct dose).
• Hold the capsule over a small bowl, carefully pull the capsule open and pour the powder into the bowl.
• Add a suitable, small amount (1 teaspoon maximum) of sweetened food product (to mask the bitter taste) to the bowl and mix well. You can use yogurt, light brown or table sugar dissolved in water, dessert toppings, sweetened condensed milk, apple sauce, honey (only for children two years or older) or regular or sugar-free chocolate syrup.
• Stir the mixture and give the entire contents of the bowl to the patient. The mixture must be swallowed immediately after its preparation. If there is some mixture left inside the bowl, rinse the bowl with a small amount of water and have the patient drink this remaining mixture.
  

 ASTHMA
Asthma is a condition that affects the airways – the small tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. If you have asthma your airways are almost always sensitive and inflamed. When you come in to contact with something you are allergic to, or something that irritates your airways (a trigger), your airways will become narrower, making it harder to breathe.

The muscles around the walls of your airways tighten. The lining of the airways becomes inflamed and starts to swell and often-sticky mucus or phlegm is produced. This will lead to you experiencing asthma symptoms.

No one knows exactly what causes asthma, but we do know that it can run in families along with other so-called allergic conditions such as hayfever, itchy eyes and eczema. We know that smoking increases asthmatic symptoms.

The factors that can trigger an asthma attack are usually described as either allergic, or non-allergic. Allergic factors are things like dust, pollen, mould, animal hair and certain foods and drinks. Non-allergic factors also take in a wide area- exertion, smoky atmostphere, cold and damp, chest colds and infections.

Asthma Symptoms

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Chest tighening
• Shortness of breath
• Lack of stamina during exercise
• Laboured breathing with use of the neck muscles and indrawing of the breastbone and gaps between the ribs
• In severe attacks, a blue discolouration of the lips and tongue.

There are two types of groups of medication Preventers and Relievers. The Preventers must be taken regularly, because their aim is to prevent wheezing or breathlessness. They are not meant to give rapid relief of wheeze. Very often, a combination of Preventers and Relievers is recommened. Preventers must be taken all the time, even if the person is not wheezy or in distress.

Medication comes in a variety of forms – Aerosol Inhalers, Dry Powder Inhalers, Tablets, Syrup, Nebuliser Liquid and Injections. Inhalers are prefarred over tablets or syrup because they deliver the medicine directly to the air passage where it is needed. Also a much smaller dose is required than of it was taken by tablet and Reliver inhalers work much faster than tablets.

Patients can measure theirs own lung function at home using a simple devise called a peak flow meter. When asthma control is good the PFM reading is high and during or approaching an attack it is low. Patients can use the PFM as an early warning system so that when readings fall the can increase their treatment in order to prevent an attack or render it less severe. The PFM helps put the asthma suffer in control. Some patients who are suspected asthma suffers may have normal lung function and it may be necessary to perform a 'bronchial challenge', where a narrowing of the bronchial tubes is provoked by performing an exercise test or inhaling a drug called metacholine.

At present there is no known cure for asthma but it can be contained. With the regular use of safe and effective medicines most people with asthma, especially children, can lead a perfectly normal life
For more information on asthma log onto: www.asthmasociety.ie

 A - Z OF VITAMINS & MINERALS
Under normal circumstances, most vitamin and mineral supplements are perfectly safe when used by healthy adults. There are however certain basic precautions that you should take before embarking on a course of supplements.

Before you start taking any supplements, consult your health care professional:
If you have ever had an allergic or unusual reaction to any medicine, food, or other substance, such as yellow dye or sulphites.

If you are a coeliac or a diabetic, or if you are on a low-salt, low-sugar, or any other special diet. Most supplements contain more than their active ingredient, and liquid supplements may contain alcohol.

If you are pregnant or if you plan to become pregnant or are breast-feeding. Certain supplements in higher dosages are not safe for the unborn child.

If you are now taking any medicines or dietary supplements. Do not forget over-the-counter (nonprescription) medicines such as pain relievers, laxatives or antacids or dietary supplements like cod liver oil.

If you have any medical condition for which you are currently receiving attention.

* DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS AND HERBAL PREPARATIONS ARE NOT INTENDED TO CURE OR TREAT ANY DISEASE. IF YOU BELIEVE YOU MAY BE SUFFERING FROM AN ILLNESS, CONSULT WITH YOUR MEDICAL PRACTITIONER BEFORE EMBARKING ON SELF MEDICATION.
* DO NOT SUBSTITUTE PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION WITH DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS OR HERBAL PREPARATIONS. IF IN DOUBT, ALWAYS SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE BEFORE EMBARKING ON A COURSE OF DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS OR HERBAL PREPARATIONS.

Your body requires a complex mix of vitamins and minerals to maintain a healthy balance. To ensure that you are getting your recommended daily intake of these vitamins and minerals, there are a variety of supplements available to boost your intake.

Take a look at this A-Z guide for details of the main vitamins and minerals and their associated benefits or ask the sales assistant or pharmacist for more information.

	Vitamin A
Helps to prevent age-related eye problems, some skin disorders and can also help to enhance immunity. As well as vitamin supplements, it is also supplied in Cod Liver Oil.
	B-Vitamins
Help to maintain healthy nerves, skin, eyes,hair, liver and mouth. B Vitamins are also useful in the regulation of brain function, moods and PMS. Some B vitamins are also important for helping to release energy from food. Vitamin B12 is useful for iron absorption.
	Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for the body’s production and maintenance of healthy collagen, which holds togethercells in the skin, gums and tendons. It also helps white blood cells to fight infection and is vital for the efficient healing of wounds. Vitamin C is an antioxidant which can help neutralize potential damaging free radicals that trigger ageing and cancerous changes. It is needed in the diet every day and cannot be stored as it is water soluble.
	Calcium
Calcium is essential for building and maintaining strong and healthy bones hence it helps to increase the density of bones in growing teenagers. Calcium is also essential for women after the menopause when they are particularly susceptible to brittle bone disease (osteoporosis). It also plays a role in muscle contraction and blood clotting. Vitamin D is vital for effective absorption of calcium.
	Chromium
Helps regulate blood sugar levels. A deficiency of Chromium has been linked to adult-onset diabetes. It also helps with the breakdown of protein, fat, and carbohydrates.
	Vitamin D
Vitamin D is crucial for encouraging absorption of calcium from food. It directly increases the rate of mineral deposits on bones. Without it our bodies cannot build or maintain strong bones. As well as vitamin supplements, Vitamin D is also supplied in Cod Liver Oil.
	Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant vitamin, which helps to neutralise potentially damaging free radicals. It is important for the maintenance of healthy skin, nerves, muscles, red blood cells and the heart. As it is only stored in the body for a short time we need a regular intake of Vitamin E.
	Folic Acid
(Folate or Folacin) is a B-Vitamin. Folic Acid can help reduce the chance of birth defects for pregnant women and is also a popular vitamin to aid heart health. Folic Acid has recently been shown to aid in memory in the elderly.
	Iron
Iron forms part of the pigment haemoglobin in blood which helps to transport oxygen around the body to all of the cells. Vitamins C & B12 help Iron to be absorbed in the body.
	Magnesium
Magnesium is stored in all body tissues and is needed for growth and maintenance of strong bones and teeth. It also plays an important role in the formation and action of over 300 different enzymes affecting many of the body’s systems and helping to release energy from food.
	Omega 3 Oils
Omega 3 Oils contain eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The body cannot make EPA and DHA on its own, so they must be obtained from food or supplements. Omega 3 Oils have been shown to help reduce bad cholesterol levels, improve memory and brain functions and ADH in children. They also promote healthy skin, hair and nails and improve the mobility of joints and help arthritis.
	Zinc
Zinc is crucial for the action of over 70 enzymes. It is particularly important for a healthy immune system and healing of wounds. Zinc is also used as a preventional treatment for colds and flu’s and can protect against free radicals which are involved in the aging process.

 HERBAL REMEDIES

Herbal remedies are made from parts of plants that through either observation or scientific research have been shown to be beneficial to health.

The vast majority of the human race (according to the WHO, up to 75%) rely on herbs as their primary source of medicine.

As with medicines, herbal remedies should be administered to children with care and professional advice. While generally accepted as safe, it is prudent to be cautious.

Read instructions carefully. Increasing the dosage does not ensure speedier results.

As a general rule, the following important precautions apply:

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place.
• Do not use past the expiry date.
• Pregnant and lactating women should consult with their doctor before taking any medicines or herbal remedies.
• Expired or unused portion of remedies should be disposed of carefully.
• Before use, ensure product has not been tampered with and read instructions carefully.
• If symptoms persist, always seek professional help.

While many herbs are safe to take, some are definitely not. Herbal remedies should not, as a rule, be taken by pregnant or lactating women without professional advice. If you suspect you are, or are planning to get pregnant soon, ask your doctor, pharmacist or midwife before taking any herbal preparation. A reputable herbalist may also be of assistance.

You should take herbal preparations only for as long as required or as recommended by a health professional.

Yes. If you are suffering from an illness for which you are currently receiving treatment or if you are on prescribed medication of any sort, it is essential that you do not discontinue your medication, substitute it with a herbal preparation or in fact take both at the same time without consulting your doctor or pharmacist first.

Determine if they are suitable for your needs, seek advice if unsure and then read and follow instructions on the pack. If and when in doubt, always seek professional advice

Most herbal preparations highlighted are generally recognised as safe with few, if any, known side-effects. However, if you suspect you may be experiencing side effects, please discontinue taking the preparation and consult your doctor, pharmacist or healthcare professional.
Remember: Always read the label carefully. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

 COLD & FLU

The common cold is caused by infection with any one of up to 200 different strains of virus. Sometimes a mixture of two or more different viruses are present.

Common Cold Symptoms

• Starts gradually
• Slight temperature after first 24 hours
• Normal appetite
• Slight headache
• Stuffed or runny nose with sneezing
• Sore throat
• Feeling tired

Flu Symptoms

• Starts rapidly
• Raised temperature in first 24 hours lasting 3/5 days
• Loss of appetite
• Severe headache
• Muscular aches & pains
• Nausea and vomiting
• Feeling exhausted

Source - Consumer Health Information centre

• There are only 3 main types of flu virus - A, B and C, each with different strains
• New strains arise frequently and are often followed by a flu epidemic as the virus spreads through the population
• Gradually people develop some immunity against the particular strain and the epidemic dies away
• Flu sometimes has a second peak in symptoms, caused by a peak in viral multiplication

Myths v's Facts
Colds are NOT caused by:

• Getting wet
• Not dressing warmly enough

What DOES make you more susceptible/ symptoms worse?

• Poor nutrition
• Fatigue
• Other illness
• Old age

There are a number of different causes:
• Usually a cold and flu infection which causes mucus to drip down the back of the throat from the nose
• Over use of the voice
• Gastric reflux - backing up of stomach acid into the throat
• Dry heat in the home or office - which may dry the cleansing flow of mucus over throat lining
• Environmental irritants e.g. cigarette smoke, dust, smog, pollen

• Strep throat (Streptococcus bacteria) is common, and sometimes associated with a fine red rash occurring over the arms and body (scarlet fever)
• Tonsillitis (infection of the tonsils) can cause a chronic sore throat

 SMOKING CESSATION
Taking the decision to stop smoking is the first critical step to becoming an ex-smoker.

You can strengthen your resolve even more by understanding your addiction to smoking, knowing the different quitting methods available, and by properly preparing for the first day you stop. You'll be more in control when you stop smoking, stronger throughout the process, and have a better chance of staying off cigarettes for good.

Once you've stopped smoking, your desire for cigarettes may last for quite a while. Nicotine is a powerful drug, but it is not the only thing that pulls you back to cigarettes.
To help you become an ex-smoker, you need to address your emotions, your habits and your physical cravings as they relate to smoking. Once you understand them, you'll be on your way to a life without cigarettes.

	Willpower alone:
Willpower is the foundation of giving up smoking, and works best combined with other methods.
	Stop smoking aids:
Products such as patches, lozenges, nasal sprays and inhalers can help with your physical cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
	Counselling:
Counselling and other types of support can bolster your emotional strength and help you break your smoking routines.
	Click to Quit Programme:
A combination of your own individually tailored support plan and products that help you overcome your attachment to smoking.
	Alternative Therapies:
Therapies such as acupuncture and hypnosis may offer some people relief from the stress of giving up smoking.
	Prescription only medicine:
Some medicines are available by prescription. You might want to talk to your GP about this option.

To learn more about these ways to quit please click on www.niquitin.ie

There are steps you can take when you're getting ready to give up smoking. And the more prepared you are, the more likely you are to succeed.

The first step is knowing exactly what your own private reasons are for giving up smoking. You can be motivated by both external and internal reasons. External motivation includes friends and family who want you to give up. Internal motivation is your own desire to move on and become an ex-smoker. When it's time to give up, you must have your own internal motivation if you're going to be successful. If you're trying to help someone give up, they must want to quit, not just for you or for a loved one, but for themselves.

Now is the time to write down your reasons, and place them where they'll remind you every day of why you have chosen to stop smoking.

You can also write down what you think will be your biggest obstacles to quitting, such as stress at work or social situations. Because the more aware of temptation you are, the less likely you are to give in to it. These challenges will be used to build your own individually tailored plan, if you choose to use the Click2Quit Programme.

As you get ready for the day you give up smoking, look at all the situations that lead you to have a cigarette.

Maybe you smoke when you have coffee, or after a meal. Or perhaps cigarettes are an integral part of a night out at the pub. Prepare for these situations, and you'll have more power to deal with them in ways other than smoking. For example, if you know where you'll be when you crave a cigarette, such as in front of the TV or while cooking dinner, you can keep healthy fruit or sugar-free chewing gum on hand to keep cravings at bay. And for the first few days after you give up, you might want to avoid the pub or other situations where your friends will go out smoking.

You'll get helpful tips and suggestions tailored to your own personal needs if you choose to use the Click2Quit Programme.

Choose your day to give up smoking. Make it an ordinary day when you don't have anything unusual happening, sometime in the near future. This will give you time to prepare.

You'll want to do some preparation before your chosen day, based on the stop smoking method you'll be using. For example, if you've decided to use a smoking cessation clinic or support group, you'll want to schedule meetings or appointments before you give up. Or, if you plan to use stop smoking aids such as patches or lozenges, have those on hand so you'll be less tempted to give in to cravings.

Get rid of your ashtrays, your matches and cigarette lighters. All of them. They're reminders of the habit you're leaving behind. And don't forget to remove the cigarette lighter and ashtray from your car, too.

Also, clean your home to try and remove the smell of cigarette smoke.

Even though the decision to give up smoking is a very private one, telling your family or close friends can provide you with extra support. Having a couple of people you're close to and can turn to when things are tough can help keep you positive and motivated.

 Think ahead to the next couple of weeks, and imagine the challenges you'll face when you've given up. Visualise yourself not smoking in everyday situations when you would normally have a cigarette. Mentally rehearse how you will cope with the tempting situations you know you will face

 The good news is that once you quit smoking, your body experiences a series of beneficial health changes that begin immediately and continue for years.

 Within 20 minutes of quitting, your blood pressure and pulse rate return to normal. Circulation improves in the hands and feet, making them warmer.

 After 8 hours, oxygen levels in the blood return to normal. Your chances of a heart attack start to fall.

 Within 24 hours, carbon monoxide is cleared from your body and after 48 hours, your sense of taste and smell begin to improve.

 After 72 hours, breathing will become easier and your energy levels will increase.

 After 1 year, your risk of a heart attack reduces by 50%.

 After 10 years, your risk of lung cancer falls to about half that of a smoker and your risk of a heart attack falls to about the same as someone who has never smoked.

 WEIGHT LOSS - HEALTH & DIET TOP TIPS Need some help with your weight loss? Below are some great weight loss tips to help you….Always consult your GP before your embark on a weight loss programme.

Drink Plenty of Water:
Water is a natural appetite suppressant. Your brain does not differentiate between hunger and thirst so when you think you are feeling hungry your body may actually be thirsty. Try to satisfy your ‘hunger’ with water first. Caffeinated drinks cause the body to lose water so try to cut back! The average person needs around 6-8 glasses every day.

Multivitamins
As few of us get a truly balanced diet it is necessary to take a Multivitamin. Vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients that the human body alone cannot manufacture in sufficient quantities. They are required for normal metabolism, growth, and general well being. One a day will help you on your way.

Exercise, exercise, exercise!
Exercise increases your metabolism and burning off excess fat. When is the best time to exercise? Our metabolism slows down about 8 hours after we wake up, so 30 minutes of exercise in the evening, before dinner will increase your metabolism for about two to three more hours just when it was starting to slow down. This produces a significant increase in fat burned off, even after the exercise is over.

Planning & Shopping
Plan the week's family menus in advance and just purchase those ingredients at a once weekly shopping trip. Always eat before you go food shopping and always prepare a shopping list. Stick to the list and don't be tempted to buy goodies.

Be Positive
The more you feel good about yourself the easier and faster it is to lose weight.

Mealtimes
Learn how to make over recipes by cutting out fats, salt and sugar. Substitute non fat yoghurt for cream, stir fry minus oil use chicken stock and use herbs and spices instead of salt or sauces for flavour. Use a food steamer as a healthy & convenient alternative for preparing food!

Eat regularly
Eat three small meals and two snacks daily instead of two or three huge meals.

Support
Find a weight loss "buddy," club, or support group. This will help you stay with your weight loss program.

Eating before Bed Time
Though difficult, try not eating 3 hours or more before bed time.

Smoking & Alcohol
If you smoke try to stop. Avoid binge drinking and try to drink less alcohol and drink in moderation.

Available now at your nearest Hickey's! Tone & Slim weight management clinics are designed to provide expert advice on how to best manage body weight while taking Tone & Slim weight management products. Weight management consultants are on hand to provide FREE one on one customer consultations in the privacy of the Pharmacy. Please contact your nearest Hickey’s pharmacy to find out when the next Tone & Slim Clinic will be held: - Finglas Main Street Tel: 01 8341150 - Phibsboro Tel: 01 8309551 - Maynooth Tel: 01 6293065 - Navan Medical Centre Tel: 046 9093374 - West St, Drogheda Tel: 041 9838651 - Ballincollig, Cork Tel: 021 4879302 The Tone & Slim Product Range

 HAIR LOSS

• The average person has 100,000 - 150,000 hairs on their head
• One hair fibre can support the weight of 100 grams
• The main component of hair is the keratin, which also holds the responsibility for the elasticity of the finger nails
• Hair is the second fastest growing tissue in the body (bone marrow is quicker). A hair grows 0.3-0.5mm per day
• In any given time, about 10% of the hairs are resting and the rest are growing
• Everyone loses more than 40% of his/her hairs - about 100 hairs a day
• Hair loss will be visible only after losing more than 50% of hair
• More than 50% of men above the age of 50 suffer from hair loss
• Between a third and two thirds of all women experience thinning hair or hair loss at some stage in their life.
• The most common form of hair loss in women is Effluviums (all over thinning of hair)
• Common reasons for hair loss include: postnatal, menopause, HRT, The Pill, stress, diet and trauma.
• Great looking hair makes you feel good - it also attracts the attention of the opposite sex. It is part of our personality.
• Hair gives us key information about a potential mate's health. Healthy hair tends to mean a healthy person.

Are you a woman suffering from hair loss? You are not alone...

Most people assume that it is only men who suffer from hair loss, but nothing could be further from the truth. Although it is basically true with regards to heredity hair loss, millions of women the world over suffer from some form of hair loss and the number appears to be rising each year. The overwhelming cause is a hereditary condition called androgenetic alopecia or female-pattern hair loss. One of the least engaging facts about getting older is that a significant number of women also experience hair loss.

All women have some of the male hormone testosterone in their bodies, but women with androgenetic alopecia are more sensitive to the hormone. This sensitivity causes hair to thin all over the head, and some women develop thinning patches similar to male-pattern hair loss

Sudden hair loss may not be painful or even dangerous in itself, but for the six out of ten women who suffer from it at some point in their lives can find it a devastating blow to their confidence.

The following are some common myths about hair loss people tend to believe. These are false!

• Frequent shampooing contributes to hair loss.
• Hats and wigs cause hair loss.
• 100 strokes of the hair brush daily will create healthier hair.
• Permanent hair loss is caused by perms, colours and other cosmetic treatments.
• Shaving one's head will cause the hair to grow back thicker.
• Standing on one's head will cause increased circulation and thereby stimulate hair growth!
• Dandruff causes permanent hair loss.
• Hair loss does not occur in the late teens or early twenties.

	- TV presenter and formerly of Bucks Fizz "I beat the misery of thinning Hair"
	- TV presenter and former BBC Royal Correspondent "I can really see the difference Viviscal makes"

 SUNCARE

If you are not sure how to best protect yourself and your family from the sun, have a look at the suncare tips below from RoC:

1. Wear a high SPF sunscreen on all exposed areas of the skin, even on cloudy days.
2. Re-apply sunscreen every two hours.
3. Apply creams liberally and evenly 20 minutes before going out in the sun, most people only use half the amount they need.
4. Try to stay out of the sun between 11am and 4.00pm as this is when the sun's rays are at their strongest.
5. Wear a hat and sunglasses with UV protective lenses.
6. Cover up with loose-fitting clothes of natural tightly woven fabric, for example linen trousers.
7. When swimming you should use a water resistant product and re-apply your sun cream after drying yourself.
8. Avoid exposing children under 6 months of age to the sun.
9. Use products without chemical filters for children under 3.

DOWNLOAD OUR FULL HOLIDAY CHECKLIST HERE

 AIDS TO DAILY LIVING

Hickey’s Pharmacy are delighted to offer you a full range of aids to daily living products from Homecare Medical Supplies. Homecare Medical Supplies is a family owned company who are proud to have supplied products to end users, Nursing Homes and Hospitals throughout Ireland for 20 years.

Included in this catalogue are products which have proven popular with customers over the past number of years together with new and improved products. Please see catalogue enclosed or feel free to come instore to view a selection of the products available.

All the products supplied are high quality, competitively priced and comply with relevant EU regulations and Homecare Medical Supplies are an ISO9002 registered supplier.

Many of the products supplied will help improve the quality of life for you, your family or someone you are caring for.

How to order:

• Simply pick up a brochure
• Select items you require
• Order instore at checkout
• Delivered direct to your location

There is no minimum order value, so you can enjoy complete flexibility in how you order. Homecare Medical Supplies have recently expanded their Service and Maintenance Department and can offer good after sales service nationwide.

Hickey’s Pharmacy currently operate from 27 locations nationwide and already provide a Medicines Dispensing and delivery service to a number of Care Institutions and a large number of private homes through our daily delivery service network.

If you have any further queries please do not hesitate to contact your local store.