Mixing some common medications and alcohol at Christmas can cause serious issues, health official said (Image: Getty Images)

Medical professionals have urged the public to exercise extreme caution when taking widely-used medications this winter - including standard painkillers like paracetamol.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) today (December 8) released an alert stating that incorrect pill usage 'can lead to dangerous and unexpected effects.' Even cough medicines can present risks, according to the MHRA.

When misused, particularly when combined with alcohol, even well-known products can prove harmful, officials cautioned. With increased social gatherings, travel and dependence on non-prescription remedies, the likelihood of unintentional misuse rises.

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