Anaphylaxis is a rare but severe allergic reaction to medication. It can develop quickly and is a medical emergency.
When should I seek emergency medical help?
Call 999 immediately if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as:
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing, or a feeling that your throat is closing
- A widespread rash, hives or severe itching, particularly alongside other symptoms
- Feeling faint, dizzy or clammy
- Collapsing or losing consciousness
Do not drive yourself to A&E. Call 999 and follow the emergency operator's instructions.
If you have been prescribed an adrenaline auto-injector (such as an EpiPen®) for a previous allergy, use it immediately as you have been instructed and then call 999. Tell the operator that you think you are experiencing an anaphylactic reaction.
Anaphylaxis requires emergency medical assessment and treatment, which may include treatment in A&E.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis usually develop quickly, although they can sometimes take longer to appear.
What if my allergic reaction is milder?
If you experience a suspected allergic reaction but do not have difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat, fainting, collapsing or other signs of anaphylaxis, contact NHS 111 or another healthcare professional for urgent advice.
If your symptoms worsen or you develop any signs of anaphylaxis, call 999 immediately.
What should I do about my next dose?
If you have experienced a suspected allergic reaction to Mounjaro® or Wegovy®, do not take your next dose until you have received appropriate medical advice.
Please also contact Simple Online Pharmacy as soon as possible so our Clinical Team can review the reaction and advise you on the appropriate next steps with your treatment.