From Headaches to Mishaps: Over-the-Counter Solutions for Travel Emergencies

By Alpro Pharmacy

December 3, 2024

Key Points:

Pack essential medications like pain relievers, allergy pills, and remedies for stomach issues to stay prepared.
Include solutions for motion sickness, cough relief, and throat irritation to manage travel discomforts.
Bring wound care essentials or opt for a ready-made travel first aid kit like Alpro Medikit 13 for convenience.

Imagine this: you’re finally on your dream trip, enjoying every moment, when an upset stomach or headache ruins your plans. Minor illnesses can disrupt your journey, especially if you’re unprepared. A well-packed travel first aid kit is your ultimate travel companion to handle unexpected issues. Not sure what to include? Let me guide you through the essentials so you can pack smart and travel with confidence!

General Pain and Fever Relief:

The most common and safest medicine is Paracetamol. This tablet works for most mild to moderate pains such as headache, muscle & joint pain, and fever. Paracetamol is also available for infants over 3 months old, children, and adults. [1] Besides, Paracetamol is generally safe for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, but it’s always best to check with a healthcare provider. Another alternative medicine is Ibuprofen. But be extra cautious when a person has gastric issues or is pregnant.

Allergies:

Having a runny nose, sneezing, or itchy skin? A tiny tablet called antihistamines (e.g., loratadine, cetirizine) can be your savior. Some antihistamines can cause drowsiness and dry mouth. [2] Ask your friendly pharmacists if you’re not sure, they will guide you through. For an itchy and skin rash, you may also opt for steroid cream (e.g., hydrocortisone) for a more localized effect.

Gastrointestinal (GI) Health:

One of the most common GI issues in traveling is travelers’ diarrhea. Loperamide is commonly used to treat diarrhea because of its effectiveness. Do not forget to take oral rehydration salts (ORS) after each loose stool because it may help prevent dehydration. Another important medicine is activated charcoal. A charcoal adsorbs ingested toxins within the gastrointestinal tract preventing the systemic absorption of that toxin. [3]

Bloating is another common issue during traveling, to reduce stomach bloatedness, you may get Simethicone. It works by decreasing the surface tension of gas bubbles in the GI tract, facilitating the evacuation. [4]

Motion Sickness:

Motion sickness occurs when your brain gets mixed signals about movement, causing nausea and dizziness. [5] You may get Dimenhydrinate (drowsy) or Meclozine + Pyridoxine (non-drowsy) for those with car or sea sickness. These medications work by reducing stimulation to the inner ear. Taking these medications at least 30-60 minutes before traveling is required.

Respiratory Relief:

Coughs and sore throats are common travel annoyances, often caused by dry air, colds, or irritation from pollution. To manage these, pack throat lozenges or sprays to soothe discomfort and reduce irritation. Cough syrups or suppressants, such as those containing dextromethorphan or ivy leaf, can help ease persistent coughing, while honey-based remedies provide a natural option.

Wound Care:

Taking care of minor skin injuries such as cuts and grazes while traveling is important to avoid infection and discomfort. Your travel first aid kit should have basic supplies like adhesive bandages, sterile gauze, antiseptic solution (e.g., povidone-iodine, chlorhexidine), and antibiotic ointment. Do remember to always clean your wounds with clean water or antiseptic solution before applying any dressing, and check for any signs of infections, like pus, swelling, and redness which may require a physician’s attention.

Does it seem like too many items to find? Avoid these hassles when you go to Alpro Pharmacy and get Alpro Medikit 13! Alpro Medikit 13 is a well-rounded travel first aid kit. Packed with essential over-the-counter medicines and supplies like pain relievers, antiseptics, bandages, and remedies for motion sickness, allergies, and stomach problems, it’s compact, convenient, and tailored for travelers. Whether you’re hiking, exploring a new city, or enjoying a family getaway, this kit ensures peace of mind with trusted, pharmacy-approved items.

A well-prepared travel first aid kit is more than just a convenience—it’s a vital part of ensuring your safety and peace of mind on any journey. Remember to tailor your kit to your destination, personal needs, and the activities planned. Staying prepared means you can focus on creating unforgettable memories, knowing you’re ready to tackle the unexpected. Pack smart, stay safe, and enjoy every moment of your adventure!

Explore Free E-Pharmacy Services

Consult our healthcare professionals on Alpro E-Pharmacy if you have any health-related concerns. Alpro E-Pharmacy is specially designed to bring convenience to everyone including those who wish to get 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗣𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 or 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 without stepping out from their comfortable home or even hotel. You can even send medications to your loved ones without hassle! Our pharmacists are always ready to assist.

If you need any further help, you are always welcome to use Alpro E-Pharmacy service on Whatsapp or call our hotline 019-7021923

Disclaimer: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your qualified health professional.

Citations

Ayoub, S. S. (2021). Paracetamol (acetaminophen): A familiar drug with an unexplained mechanism of action. Temperature, 8(4), 351–371. https://doi.org/10.1080/23328940.2021.1886392
Farzam K, Sabir S, O’Rourke MC. Antihistamines. [Updated 2023 Jul 10]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538188/
Silberman J, Galuska MA, Taylor A. Activated Charcoal. [Updated 2023 Apr 26]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482294/
Ingold CJ, Akhondi H. Simethicone. [Updated 2023 Jul 3]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK555997/
Takov V, Tadi P. Motion Sickness. [Updated 2023 Jul 3]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539706/