A leading pharmacist is warning that many people are taking common medications without understanding the risks. Deborah Grayson, who has worked in the field for 30 years, says too many patients stay on pills for months or years with no review and no clear plan.

She explains that busy GP appointments and quick fixes have created a silent problem. Medicines are easy to start but hard to stop. Patients trust their doctors, but they are rarely told about addiction risks, withdrawal symptoms, or long-term side effects.

One of the biggest dangers, she says, comes from opioid painkillers like codeine and tramadol. These drugs can cause dependence in just a few days, and withdrawal can be extremely uncomfortable. Statins, another widely used drug, can trigger muscle pain, crushing tiredness, and in rare cases, serious muscle damage.

Grayson also warns about antidepressants. While they help many people, stopping them too fast can cause dizziness, nausea, “brain zaps,” and intense anxiety. Drugs for nerve pain, such as gabapentin and pregabalin, can also be addictive and may cause memory problems, weight gain, and severe withdrawal.

Even everyday treatments carry risks. Long-term steroid cream use can lead to a painful rebound known as topical steroid withdrawal. PPIs for heartburn can weaken digestion and cause nutrient shortages. Stimulant laxatives can make the bowel “lazy,” leading to long-term dependence.

Grayson’s message is clear: no one should stay on a medication without checking whether it is still needed. She urges patients to talk to their GP, review their prescriptions, and consider safer alternatives when possible.