Google searches for “cold and flu tablets” are up 4,400% in the UK this month, and by the end of September last year, the NHS 111 service logged more than 42,000 calls reporting influenza in the last week of September last year – an influx of cases is right around the corner.
There are a number of over-the-counter medications that patients are eligible for, but not every patient can take every over-the-counter medication. For example, a person who has high blood pressure should not take a medication to de-congest the nose, like Sudafed, because this can raise blood pressure. A patient with kidney disease should not take a medication like a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, something like ibuprofen or aspirin, because that can cause kidney injury or electrolyte abnormalities.
So, how does this affect the estimated 1.5million people on weight loss injections? And should they continue jabbing during illness?
Jason Murphy, Head of Pharmacy and weight loss expert at Chemist4U, explains to Digital Journal the signs and warnings to look out for.
Murphy begins explaining the background of the issue: “With thousands already estimated to have the flu and more people than ever on weight loss injections in the UK, many may be facing flu season while on their medication for the first time.
“While some common side effects of weight loss injections, like headache, fatigue and nausea resemble flu symptoms, these are usually temporary and subside within a few days to a few weeks.”
Some nuance is required when assessing symptoms: “It’s important to understand the difference: Weight loss injection side effects are caused by the medication and mainly affect the digestive system, blood sugar and other bodily functions, whereas flu symptoms are caused by a viral infection and primarily respiratory. Understanding the difference can help people manage their symptoms safely.
Murphy’s advice is: “If you start to feel unwell and your illness makes it difficult to eat three meals per day, or it’s generally impacting your appetite, it’s recommended to skip a dose until full recovery. This is suggested to minimise the risk of malnutrition and dehydration. If you’re unable to eat or drink normally, taking a medication, like Mounjaro or Wegovy, that reduces appetite could make flu recovery more difficult. Without adequate food and liquids, you won’t be getting the vitamins and nutrients your body needs to fight infection.”
His main recommendation is: “Staying hydrated is crucial on medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy, especially while ill.”
Murphy adds: “Proper hydration supports digestion and blood sugar control, while helping to prevent constipation. During flu season, dehydration can worsen medication side effects and flu symptoms. Some known warning signs include darker yellow urine, dry mouth and mild headaches, but people are not successful at spotting other signs like harder-than-usual bowel movements and unusual tiredness. It’s beneficial to consider adding an electrolyte drink or rehydration solution to help boost fluid intake and maintain hydration, particularly during cold and flu season.
Furthermore, Murphy states: “While sick with flu, it’s also recommended to rest and sleep, keep warm, and take paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower your temperature and treat aches and pains.
“By paying attention to flu symptoms (high temperatures, aching body, dry cough, sore throat, loss of appetite, etc.), following the above steps can help you get better quicker and back to your usual dosing. If you have concerns about managing your medication during illness, consult with your doctor for personalised guidance.”
