By Dave Branco

To Your Health: Drug conflicts 

Feb 17, 2026 | 6:19 AM

PRINCE GEORGE – Many people don’t realize that mixing medications, especially during cold and flu season, can be risky. Pharmacists say even common over-the-counter drugs can cause serious problems when combined with prescription medications.

Behind the counter, pharmacists are doing more than just filling prescriptions. One of their most important jobs is checking for dangerous drug interactions before the medication ever reaches the patient.

Pharmacists say the risk doesn’t stop with prescription drugs. Over-the-counter medications, natural health products, and pain relievers like Advil or Tylenol can also interact with medications people already take every day.

Drug interactions can lead to two major problems: safety issues that may cause harm, or reduced effectiveness that prevents medications from properly treating a condition.

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That’s why pharmacists recommend checking with your regular pharmacy—especially before starting anything new.

A quick conversation with your pharmacist could prevent serious harm and help ensure your medications work the way they’re meant to.