Winter Travel: UAE Experts Advise on Medications

Winter Travel Preparations: Experts Advise on Medication Purchases in UAE

As the winter holiday season approaches, pharmacies within the United Arab Emirates, especially in Dubai and Sharjah, have noticed a significant increase in activity. Many residents opt to visit a pharmacy before embarking on travels to assemble a so-called "safety medication kit." This typically includes vitamins, pain relievers, cold remedies, and hydration solutions – all in the hope that should they fall ill at their destination, they won't need to search for unfamiliar medications.

Vitamins Take the Lead during Holiday Season

Pharmacists report that travelers primarily target multivitamins, various immune boosters, vitamin C, zinc supplements, and electrolyte replacements. There is particularly high demand for these items before the travel season, as many prepare to visit countries with colder climates.

In a community pharmacy in Dubai, it's common for customers to specifically seek "travel medication kits" in the days leading up to their travels, primarily seeking general wellness enhancers, though targeted requests such as treatments for headaches, sore throats, or nasal congestion are common.

Antibiotics Remain a Sensitive Topic

While most seek vitamins, some customers request antibiotics as a precaution. However, pharmacists unanimously refuse such requests without a medical prescription. This is not only due to local regulations but also due to responsible medication supply and public health considerations.

Pharmacists observe that many travelers assume obtaining the necessary medication abroad may be challenging, or they may not be able to accurately explain their symptoms. They suggest that in such cases, consulting a doctor is always recommended, especially if they are unsure whether symptoms result from a viral or bacterial infection.

Doctors Advocate for Caution

Local doctors also emphasize that unjustified medication consumption, whether vitamins or stronger drugs, can be unnecessary and potentially harmful. The most common complaints during travel – colds, mild fevers, digestive issues – are typically viral, against which antibiotics are ineffective.

Many are inclined to take multiple dietary supplements simultaneously, hoping to better protect themselves from illnesses. However, doctors warn against overconsumption or combining vitamins, which can cause side effects, especially when taking other medications.

Simplicity and Awareness: Keys to Safe Travel

Both doctors and pharmacists agree on the importance of preparing a simple, thoughtful medication kit for travel, which may include fever and pain relievers, allergy remedies, electrolyte replacements, and basic wound disinfectants. Anything more is often unnecessary and based more on anxiety than genuine need.

From a health preservation perspective, it's more important to stay hydrated, rest, and adhere to basic hygiene habits than to carry an excessive number of pills in a carry-on bag.

Why Vitamins Don’t Replace Medical Advice

Though vitamins support overall health, they don't replace medical examinations, accurate diagnostics, and targeted treatment. Many feel that starting a "complex" vitamin regimen in time can ward off illness – but this often provides psychological comfort rather than true prevention.

This is particularly true when someone starts taking multiple supplements simultaneously, such as multivitamins, vitamin C, zinc, probiotics, and even herbal immune boosters. Such combinations are not always beneficial and can have unpleasant side effects, especially when the body is stressed by travel, time zone changes, or climate alterations.

Caution is Especially Important in Winter

Cold weather, dry airplane air, and public transportation can increase infection risks. During such times, it's essential to adopt basic health protection measures, such as using hand sanitizers, staying hydrated, and dressing appropriately for the destination's climate.

Experts maintain that careful planning, rather than stockpiling medications, is the best defense. Those with chronic illnesses or on regular medication should consult their doctor before traveling to receive precise instructions.

Summary

Purchasing medications "just in case" is understandable among those preparing for travel, especially in winter. However, pharmacists and doctors in Dubai have issued a clear message: there is no need to procure antibiotics, strong medications, or excessive vitamins without a prescription in advance.

Precaution is important, but it cannot replace professional medical consultation, and not every illness can be prevented with pills. The greatest safety during travel comes from common sense, adequate rest, maintaining hygiene, and using local health services when necessary.

(The article is based on pharmacists' experiences.)