As the countdown to Christmas enters its final week, NHS health and care teams are advising patients to not leave it too late to order their repeat prescriptions.
People with long term health conditions including asthma, diabetes, lung and heart disease, are being reminded to ensure they have enough medication to see them through the festive season.
Many pharmacies across Cumbria will close for Christmas on Friday 22 December and not re-open until Wednesday 27 December meaning people in need of medication over the Christmas holidays must get their prescriptions ordered.
Dr Neil O'Brien, medical director, NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) said: "Christmas is fast approaching so we are reminding patients not to leave it to the last minute to order their repeat medication.
“The consequences of running out of prescribed medicine can be significant, especially for older people and those who are vulnerable, which is why having a sufficient supply, to last over the holidays, should be very near the top of everybody’s Christmas to-do list.
"If you do forget, and find you need emergency medication, don't worry - you can go to any local community pharmacy, open over the holidays, - you can find your nearest available one here https://northeastnorthcumbria.nhs.uk/news/posts/christmas-and-new-year-pharmacy-opening-hours/ - or contact NHS 111 online who will be able to assist."
With GP practices and many pharmacies closed over the festive bank holidays people are also being urged to be prepared for the season’s most common illnesses by stocking up on medicine cabinet essentials.
“Many winter ailments clear up on their own or can be treated with over the counter products from your local community pharmacy, added Dr O'Brien.
“Simple remedies like paracetamol and ibuprofen can treat common ailments such as colds, sore throat and coughs at home - without having to see a GP – and community pharmacists can also provide lots of advice and treatments for many other common conditions over winter, including urinary tract infections, stomach upsets, constipation and diarrhoea.
“Making sure you have the right medication could make all the difference, so please don’t get caught out, order your repeat prescriptions in time and stock up on your medicine cabinet essentials before Christmas”
Some pharmacies will be open on Christmas and Boxing Day, in Penrith
Monday 25th December
Joseph Cowper Chemist, 49-50 King Street, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 7AY
10:30am - 12:30pm
Tuesday 26th December
Boots, Unit 3, Angel Square, Penrith, CA11 7BT
10:30am - 4:30pm
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