‘Just in case’ medicines before flights drive winter rush at UAE pharmacies

Pharmacies across the UAE are witnessing a seasonal surge in demand for “just in case” medicines as residents prepare for winter holidays and overseas travel. Pharmacists report that multivitamins, vitamin C, zinc, immune boosters and hydration supplements are topping travellers’ shopping lists, followed by basic cold, flu and pain relief medicines.

Community pharmacists in Dubai and Sharjah said many customers are assembling personal travel medicine kits amid concerns about falling ill abroad. While supplements are in high demand, pharmacists are cautioning customers that these products support general health but do not guarantee protection against infections.

Pharmacists also confirmed that requests for antibiotics without prescriptions remain common, but are consistently refused in line with UAE regulations. Instead, customers are directed towards safe over-the-counter options and encouraged to consult doctors if symptoms develop, particularly when travelling to destinations with different climates, food and environmental conditions.

Doctors have echoed these warnings, stressing the risks of unnecessary self-medication. Internal medicine specialists noted that most common travel-related illnesses are viral in nature and do not require antibiotics. Medical experts also warned that excessive use or improper combinations of supplements and cold medicines can lead to side effects or interactions, especially during long-haul travel and climate changes.

Healthcare professionals recommend keeping travel medicine kits simple, including pain and fever relief tablets, oral rehydration salts, basic allergy medication and first-aid essentials. Travellers are being urged to seek professional medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen, rather than relying on preventative self-medication.