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Think your medicine cabinet is ready for winter? A pharmacist says to check these 7 things

Think your medicine cabinet is ready for winter? A pharmacist says to check these 7 things

From painkillers to rehydration salts, a pharmacist shares 7 medicine cabinet essentials worth checking as autumn begins.

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Ruairidh Pritchard

Published: September 29, 2026 at 10:36 AM

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As September draws to a close and cold, cough and stomach bug season gets underway, now is a sensible time to give the family medicine cabinet a quick once-over.

Alongside checking expiry dates and replacing anything that has run out, pharmacist Amir Bhogal says there are a handful of over-the-counter medicines that can be useful to have ready for those headaches, sore throats and tummy troubles that have a habit of appearing at the least convenient moment.

Bhogal, Superintendent Pharmacist and Director of Pyramid Pharmacy Group, has shared seven medicine cabinet staples he recommends considering for common health complaints. As always, medicines should be stored safely and out of the sight and reach of children, and you should check the packet or speak to a pharmacist if you're unsure whether a medicine is suitable for you or your family.

7 medicine cabinet essentials to check before winter

1. Paracetamol and ibuprofen

First up, check your supply of everyday painkillers. Paracetamol can help with headaches and fever, while ibuprofen also reduces inflammation and can be useful for period pain and minor injuries such as sprains.

It's important to check what's already in any cold and flu remedies you're taking, as some contain paracetamol, meaning you could accidentally take more than intended.

Ibuprofen can irritate the stomach, so Bhogal advises taking it with food. Anyone with a history of stomach ulcers should speak to their pharmacist before using it.

2. Medicated throat lozenges

With autumn often bringing its fair share of sore throats, medicated lozenges can provide short-term relief. Some contain a local anaesthetic to numb discomfort, while others contain ingredients such as flurbiprofen, an NSAID that can help reduce throat pain.

Most sore throats improve by themselves within a week. If yours is getting worse or hasn't improved after seven days, Bhogal advises speaking to a GP.

3. Antihistamines

Antihistamines aren't only worth having around during hay fever season. They work by blocking the effects of histamine and can help with allergy symptoms including itching, redness and swelling.

Non-drowsy options such as cetirizine or loratadine are generally preferred during the day, although they can still make some people sleepy. A pharmacist can help you choose an appropriate option, particularly if you're taking other medicines.

4. Acid reflux relief

If heartburn occasionally strikes after meals, antacids can help neutralise stomach acid and ease the uncomfortable burning sensation caused by acid reflux. Some products also contain alginates, which form a protective barrier.

Antacids can affect how some other medicines are absorbed, however, so always check the leaflet. You may need to leave a gap of a few hours between treatments.

5. Loperamide

Loperamide, commonly sold under brands including Imodium, can provide short-term relief from diarrhoea by slowing movement through the gut.

There are situations when it shouldn't be used. If there's blood in your stool alongside a high temperature, seek medical advice before taking loperamide. Bhogal also advises not using it for longer than 48 hours without speaking to a doctor, particularly if your symptoms aren't improving.

6. Oral rehydration salts

Vomiting and diarrhoea can cause the body to lose both fluids and essential salts, so oral rehydration sachets are another useful medicine cabinet addition.

They contain glucose and salts designed to help the body absorb water effectively. Follow the packet instructions carefully, including using exactly the stated amount of water.

If signs of dehydration continue despite using oral rehydration salts, speak to a pharmacist or other healthcare professional for advice.

7. Antiseptic cream

Finally, it's worth checking the first-aid section of your cupboard. For minor cuts and grazes, Bhogal recommends first rinsing the wound with clean water and gently drying it before applying a suitable antiseptic cream, such as one containing chlorhexidine, and covering it with a sterile plaster.

If swelling gets worse or pus develops, seek medical advice, as these can be signs that the wound needs further assessment.

Before you restock, check what you already have

A seasonal medicine cabinet refresh isn't just about buying replacements. Check expiry dates, read storage instructions and dispose of unwanted or expired medicines safely. In the UK, unwanted medicines can be taken to a pharmacy for safe disposal.

And if you're buying medicines for children, don't assume the adult version or dose is suitable. Always check the age and dosage instructions on the packaging and ask a pharmacist if you're unsure.

Authors

Ruairidh PritchardDigital Growth Lead

Ruairidh is the Digital Lead on MadeForMums. He works with a team of fantastically talented content creators and subject-matter experts on MadeForMums.