Snow is forecast to hit parts of the UK in the coming days as temperatures take a tumble. Now a pharmacist has shared five essential pills every household should stock up on in colder weather.

Peter Thnoia is a superintendent pharmacist at online chemist PillTime. He said early intervention was key to tackling coughs and colds that are circulating.

His top five medications to have at home could help alleviate those seasonal sneezes. Here we share his top five recommendations.

1. Vitamin D3 (not D2)

Vitamin D supplements are recommended for all adults in the UK during autumn and winter when our exposure to sunlight is reduced. It can help to support immunity, bones and overall wellbeing.

Mr Thnoia said: "Vitamin D is one of those silent essentials: you don't notice it when you're getting enough, but you definitely feel it when you're not.

"That's why we recommend everyone in the UK takes a daily supplement between October and March. It supports immunity, bone health, and general wellbeing during the months when our bodies need a little extra help."

Vitamin D3 is generally more effective and better absorbed by the body than D2, Mr Thnoia added.

He said: "For most adults, the NHS recommends 10 micrograms a day, and it's advised not to exceed 100 micrograms (4,000 IU). Children and infants have even lower safe limits.

"If you're unsure about how much to take, especially if you have an existing health condition, it's always best to check with your doctor or pharmacist."

2. Paracetamol

Most of us reach for paracetamol to treat common ailments and it can be helpful when dealing with the early signs of a cold. But Mr Thnoia warned not to double-dose when using cold and flu medicines in combination.

He explained: "It's brilliant for bringing down fevers and helping with headaches or general winter aches, which are all those typical signs when something's brewing.

"But it's important to remember that a lot of cold and flu tablets already contain paracetamol, so you need to be careful not to double up. Always check the label and stick to the stated dose."

3. Sore throat remedies

Lozenges or throat sprays can help ease pain and irritation, one of the earliest cold symptoms.

Mr Thnoia said: "Winter viruses often start with a sore, dry throat, and it can really knock you off your stride. Lozenges with a mild anaesthetic can ease the sting, and sprays are great for targeting pain more directly."

4. Saline nasal spray

Saline nasal sprays can help to relieve congestion, particularly for people who are prone to sinus issues.

Mr Thnoia said: "It's always worth having a few of these ready to go, especially if you talk a lot in your job or work in a colder environment."

5. Cough syrups

Coughs and colds can spread more easily when people spend more time indoors during the colder months. Choosing the right cough syrup to match your symptoms - whether it is a tickly or chesty cough - can help speed recovery, Mr Thnoia said.

He added: "We always see a rise in coughs and sniffles as the weather turns, it's part of the season.

"But what makes a big difference is being stocked up ahead of time, especially if you rely on regular medication too. No one wants to be caught out during a weekend."