FAQs

“Sulphur burps” are burps that smell/taste like rotten eggs. This happens when gas in the stomach contains hydrogen sulphide, which is produced during digestion.

Symptoms include:

• Rotten egg tasting burps
• Egg-like smell coming up after food
• Increased burping
• Nausea / bloating alongside the burps
• Sometimes diarrhoea or stomach cramps

This is a recognised gastrointestinal side effect and can occur with GLP-1 injections.

GLP-1 medications can slow the stomach emptying (known as delayed gastric emptying).

This means:

• Food stays in the stomach for longer than usual
• Digestion becomes slower
• Food can ferment more, leading to gas build-up
• This can increase the likelihood of hydrogen sulphide gas, causing the “sulphur” smell

This is more common when:

• The dose is increased
• Meals are high in fat or large in portion size
• The medication is restarted after a gap
• The patient eats too quickly or late at night

Sulphur burps can occur with many GLP-1 / incretin medications including:

• Wegovy® (semaglutide)
• Mounjaro® (tirzepatide)
• Saxenda® (liraglutide)

It is not limited to one brand.

Not everyone gets this side effect. However, burping, reflux, nausea, bloating and indigestion are well-recognised GLP-1 effects, and sulphur burps are often part of this cluster.

It can be:

• mild and short-lived, OR
• persistent for several days after injection, especially after dose escalation

Most cases improve with diet and habit changes.

1) Eat smaller meals

Large portions sit longer in the stomach and worsen symptoms.

✅ Smaller portions, more frequently if needed.

Avoid trigger foods (common culprits)

These foods can increase hydrogen sulphide gas:

• Eggs
• Red meat
• Cheese and heavy dairy
• High-fat meals (e.g., fried foods, takeaways)
• High-sulphur vegetables:
  • broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, onions, sprouts
• Protein shakes (some types worsen symptoms)

✅ Choose lighter meals:

• plain chicken/fish
• soups/broths
• plain rice, toast
• banana/oats
• low-fat yoghurt (if tolerated)

3) Slow down eating

Eating quickly introduces more air → worsens burping.

✅ Eat slowly, chew fully.

4) Avoid fizzy drinks + chewing gum

These increase swallowed air and can worsen reflux/burps.

5) Don’t lie down after meals

✅ Stay upright for at least 2–3 hours after eating.

6) Hydration is key

Dehydration worsens nausea and digestion. Trying to reduce beverages like coffee and carbonated beverages will help minimise the chances of you experiencing the burps. Having plenty of water and trying Herbal teas like Peppermint tea will also help in minimising the side effects.

✅ Sip water regularly through the day.

Short-term Over The Counter treatments (OTC) can be used to help. Such as:

• Antacids (e.g., Rennie / Gaviscon)
• Alginate reflux products (especially if reflux present)
• Peppermint capsules may help some people but may worsen reflux in others

⚠️ If symptoms are severe or persistent, they should seek clinical advice before taking multiple OTC products.

In most patients:

• Symptoms improve within a few days
• Often settles once the body adapts to the dose
• May return after each dose increase (temporarily)

If it persists beyond a week or becomes severe, clinical review is recommended.

Sulphur burps alone are usually not dangerous, but patients must seek urgent help if any red-flag symptoms occur, particularly because GLP-1 medications are associated (rarely) with serious GI complications.

Seek urgent medical attention if experiencing:

• severe or worsening abdominal pain
• abdominal pain that goes through to the back
• persistent vomiting / inability to keep fluids down
• fever
• yellowing of skin/eyes (jaundice)
• signs of dehydration (very dark urine, dizziness, confusion)
• severe diarrhoea lasting >48 hours
• symptoms of pancreatitis (severe upper abdominal pain + vomiting)

Sulphur burps are especially common if:

• the patient has restarted after a gap
• or has jumped to a higher dose too quickly

In these situations it may be necessary to:

• reduce to a lower dose
• extend the time on the lower dose
• pause and reassess tolerance

(For example: after a >2 week gap, restarting at the lowest dose is often required for safety.)

• Discomfort around the anus 
• Bright red blood after pooing 
• Itchiness around the anus 
• A feeling of incomplete emptying after opening your bowels
• Mucus in your underwear or when you wipe 
• Pain around the anus 
• Lumps around the anus

A range of factors can cause haemorrhoids, and they may even come and go without you really noticing too much. Some common causes can include the following. 

• Straining when passing stools
• Constipation or hard stools
• Pregnancy
• Being overweight
• Long periods of sitting
• Low‑fibre diet
• Age‑related weakening of supporting tissues

The pharmacists at Medicine Marketplace provide professional, supportive service, helping you find a suitable solution to manage any discomfort. 

A pharmacist can recommend treatments, such as creams, ointments, or suppositories, to help ease pain, itching, and discomfort. We may also suggest treatments to relieve constipation or self-care measures, such as warm baths, to help relieve discomfort.

Making positive lifestyle changes can help you reduce the risk of developing haemorrhoids. 

• Increase fibre: Eating more fruit, vegetables, wholegrains and pulses helps soften stools and reduce straining.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports healthy bowel movements.
• Avoid straining: Take your time in the bathroom and avoid prolonged sitting on the toilet.
• Keep active: Regular movement helps prevent constipation.
• Good toilet habits: Respond to the urge to open your bowels rather than delaying.

In the first instance, it’s a good idea to speak to a registered pharmacist about your symptoms, as they may be able to help you with any discomfort until the piles pass. 

You should speak to a GP or healthcare professional if:

• Symptoms persist for more than a few weeks
• You experience severe pain or bleeding
• You are over 50 and notice bleeding from your bottom for the first time
• Bleeding occurs frequently, or you are unsure of the cause
• There is a change in bowel habits
• You have symptoms that do not improve with pharmacy treatment

Seek urgent medical attention if you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, or symptoms that worsen suddenly.

Haemorrhoids can often be treated effectively through self-care and pharmacy support. If you are struggling with piles, you can book a free online consultation with our registered pharmacists. 

Having your appointment online means you can benefit from discreet service and expert care without even leaving your home. Book a consultation today for confidential support.

• Ongoing stress, disrupts normal hair growth
• Reduced protein or nutrient intake
• Hormonal shifts
• Metabolic changes as your body adjusts to rapid weight loss

• Gradual thinning of hair
• Receding hairline
• Loosening of hair that leads to handfuls of hair coming out
• Thinner ponytail

Hair loss usually begins 2 to 4 months after weight loss starts and can continue for several months before improvements can be seen. Hair loss associated with GLP-1 medication is temporary and reversible.

• Increase protein intake – try and aim for at least 1gram of protein per kilogram of body weight per day or 100g of protein daily. Try and consume complete proteins like lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, and legumes.
• Eat a nutrient – dense diet, focussing on a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient- rich foods to try and address potential deficiencies.

• Increase protein intake – try and aim for at least 1gram of protein per kilogram of body weight per day or 100g of protein daily. Try and consume complete proteins like lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, and legumes.
• Eat a nutrient – dense diet, focussing on a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient- rich foods to try and address potential deficiencies.

• Manage stress – try using stress reduction techniques like exercise or meditation.
• Adapt gentle hair care – avoid harsh chemicals and excessive heat when styling or drying to reduce strain on hair follicles.
• Be patient – Hair growth takes time. Your body will need time adapting.

Losing hair can be upsetting for patients, as it is an important part of who they are. If hair loss is causing distress, your GP can help arrange some blood tests and help with some treatments that might help.

Counselling might help reduce stress and you may also be able to join a support group, or speak to other people in the same situation on online forums.

The good news is that hair loss associated with GLP – 1 medication starts 2-4 months after starting the treatment.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out on support@medicinemarketplace.com or call 0330 1755747, option 3.

• A receding hairline
• Thinning at the crown or temples
• Overall reduction in hair density

These changes can also be caused by other conditions, so it’s important not to self‑diagnose. A healthcare professional can help determine the cause of hair loss.

Male pattern baldness can be linked to a range of factors.

• Genetics
• Hormonal factors (particularly sensitivity to DHT)
• Age

It is not usually caused by illness, but certain medical conditions, stress, or nutritional deficiencies can also contribute to hair loss. A pharmacist can help identify when further medical assessment may be needed.

A number of treatment options may be available, depending on individual circumstances. A pharmacist can provide advice on suitable options and whether further assessment is needed.

Pharmacy options

Some treatments are available without a prescription, such as topical minoxidil. A pharmacist can advise on the correct use and whether it may be appropriate for you.

Prescription-only treatments

Some treatments may require a prescription and are only supplied following assessment by a qualified prescriber, where clinically appropriate. Your pharmacist can advise whether a referral is suitable.

All medicines can cause side effects. Your pharmacist will explain the potential benefits and risks to help you make an informed decision.

Non‑medicinal options

Some people choose alternatives such as:

• Cosmetic hair fibres
• Wigs or hairpieces
• Hairstyling techniques
• Specialist hair clinics

These options do not treat the underlying cause but may help with appearance and confidence.

While lifestyle changes cannot prevent male pattern baldness, they may support general hair and scalp health:

• Eating a balanced diet
• Managing stress
• Avoiding harsh chemical treatments
• Reducing heat styling
• Maintaining good scalp hygiene

These measures support overall hair health but cannot reverse genetic hair loss.

• We can provide confidential advice about hair loss
• We can complete an assessment to determine whether pharmacy treatment is suitable
• We can offer guidance on safe and effective use of hair‑loss medicines
• We can provide a referral to a GP or specialist when needed

Speak to a GP or healthcare professional if:

• Hair loss is sudden or patchy
• You develop scalp pain, redness, or irritation
• You are unsure of the cause
• Hair loss occurs alongside other symptoms
• You have a family history of early or severe hair loss and want personalised advice

Prompt assessment ensures you receive the most appropriate support.

If you are experiencing male hair loss that is affecting your confidence and well-being, then we’d recommend booking a free consultation with our registered pharmacists. We provide advice and support to help you understand and manage male pattern baldness.

Book a free online consultation today.

Hayfever symptoms can vary significantly and may include some of the following. 

• Sneezing
• Runny or blocked nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Itchy throat, mouth, nose or ears
• Cough caused by post‑nasal drip
• Fatigue due to disrupted sleep

Symptoms often worsen during high‑pollen periods and may be triggered by grass, tree or weed pollen. Some people may be more allergic to one type of pollen, causing their symptoms to worsen.

Hay fever occurs when the immune system overreacts to pollen, treating it as a harmful substance. This reaction causes the release of histamine and other chemicals, which leads to inflammation and typical allergy symptoms.

Common pollen triggers include:

• Grass pollen (most common in the UK – May – July)
• Tree pollen (March – May)
• Weed pollen (June – September)

Pollen levels vary throughout the year, with different plants releasing pollen at different times.

As we mentioned previously, there is no cure for hay fever, but there are steps you can take to reduce the effects it has on your body. 

Monitor pollen counts

There are many online tools that can be used to monitor pollen levels in your area. It can be helpful to understand these so that you can make any necessary adjustments to your daily routine. 

Reduce exposure to pollen 

While it can be tricky to reduce exposure fully, some small steps can help reduce pollen. 

• Keep windows closed during high‑pollen periods
• Shower and change clothes after being outdoors
• Wear wraparound sunglasses to reduce eye irritation
• Avoid drying clothes outside when pollen counts are high

Maintain a clean environment

Regular cleaning and vacuuming (preferably with a HEPA-filter vacuum) can help reduce indoor pollen and other allergens.

Medicine Marketplace pharmacists can offer advice on managing hay fever and recommend suitable treatments where appropriate. Possible treatments include:

• Antihistamine tablets or liquids
• Nasal sprays
• Eye drops
• Saline rinses

These treatments can help relieve symptoms, but their effectiveness varies between individuals. Our registered pharmacists can guide you on suitable options based on your symptoms and medical history.

• Symptoms are severe or persistent
• Over‑the‑counter treatments do not provide relief
• You experience symptoms outside of typical pollen seasons
• You have asthma and notice worsening breathing symptoms

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience severe breathing difficulties, chest tightness or wheezing, particularly if you have asthma.

Hay fever can be managed effectively with pharmacy-led treatment. Book a free, online consultation with our registered pharmacists today.

• A burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
• An unpleasant sour or bitter taste in the mouth
• A feeling of fluid coming back up into the throat
• Bloating or belching
• Persistent cough or hoarse voice (in some cases)

Many people notice that their symptoms become worse after lying down or bending over.

Acid reflux occurs when the ring of muscle at the bottom of the oesophagus relaxes or weakens, allowing stomach acid to travel up the oesophagus.

Common contributing factors include:

• Large or heavy meals
• Eating close to bedtime
• Being overweight
• Smoking
• Pregnancy
• Certain foods and drinks (e.g., spicy foods, citrus, caffeine, alcohol)
• Stress

Many people find that simple lifestyle adjustments help reduce symptoms:

• Adjust eating habits: Eat smaller, more frequent meals, avoid lying down within 2 to 3 hours of eating and reduce trigger foods if you notice a pattern.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Losing weight, if appropriate, can reduce pressure on the stomach.
• Stop smoking: Smoking can weaken the lower oesophageal sphincter.
• Raise the head of the bed: Using extra pillows or raising the bed head can help reduce nighttime symptoms.

Our pharmacy team can provide advice on managing symptoms and, if appropriate, help you choose suitable over-the-counter treatments. Some treatments may include the following.

• Antacids
• Alginates
• Acid‑reducing medicines

These treatments can help relieve symptoms, but individual responses vary. Our pharmacists can guide you on suitable options based on your symptoms and medical history.

These medicines are usually intended for short-term relief. If symptoms persist, further medical advice may be needed.

You should speak to a GP or healthcare professional if:

• Symptoms occur frequently or persist for more than a few weeks
• Over‑the‑counter treatments do not provide relief
• You have difficulty swallowing
• You experience persistent vomiting
• You notice unintentional weight loss
• Symptoms are severe or worsening
• Symptoms in people over 55 with a new onset of reflux
• You have pain when swallowing
• You have persistent indigestion

Seek urgent medical attention if you vomit blood, have black or tarry stools, or experience severe chest pain.

If you want advice on heartburn and acid reflux, you can book a free consultation with our registered pharmacist today. Select an appointment time that works for you. We provide consultations seven days a week from 9 am until 10 pm.

Hives occur when the body releases histamine and other chemicals into the skin, often in response to a trigger. Common causes include:

• Allergies, such as reactions to foods, insect stings, or medications
• Infections, including viral illnesses
• Heat, cold, or sunlight
• Pressure on the skin
• Stress or emotional factors
• Exercise or sweating
• Unknown causes (idiopathic urticaria)

If symptoms persist for more than 6 weeks, this may be chronic urticaria and requires medical assessment.

A clinical assessment helps determine whether treatment is appropriate and whether further investigation is needed.

Hives may appear as:

• Raised, red or skin‑coloured welts
• Itchy patches that may sting or feel warm
• Areas that change shape, move around, or fade and reappear
• Small individual bumps or larger patches that join together

Symptoms can last minutes, hours, or longer depending on the cause.

There are several UK‑licensed treatments that may help relieve symptoms of hives.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are commonly used to help reduce itching and swelling. Options include:

• Non‑drowsy antihistamines (often recommended first)
• Sedating antihistamines (may be used at night if appropriate)

Examples include cetirizine, loratadine, or fexofenadine.

Sedating antihistamines may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.

A UK‑registered prescriber will review your consultation to ensure the treatment is suitable.

Other measures

Some people find relief through:

• Cool compresses
• Avoiding known triggers
• Wearing loose, breathable clothing

• Not all treatments are suitable for everyone
• Some antihistamines may cause drowsiness or interact with other medicines
• Always read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) before use
• Use treatments exactly as directed by a healthcare professional
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not start treatment without advice from a healthcare professional.

1. Complete a confidential online consultation
   Your answers are reviewed by a UK‑registered prescriber.
2. Treatment recommendations
   If clinically appropriate, a prescription may be issued. In some cases, treatment may not be supplied.
3. Fast, discreet delivery
   Medicines are dispensed by our GPhC‑registered pharmacy and delivered in plain, secure packaging.

We may contact you if further information is required.

You should speak to a GP or healthcare professional if:

• Your symptoms last longer than a few days
• Hives keep returning
• You have swelling of the lips, eyes, or face
• Over‑the‑counter treatments have not helped
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need treatment advice
• You experience side effects from medication

Seek urgent medical attention if you develop:

• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the tongue or throat
• Dizziness or faintness

These may be signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Hives are common and often settle with simple treatment and avoidance of triggers. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, our pharmacy team can provide general guidance.

Looking for advice on treating hives? Book a free online consultation with us.

Online consultations are not suitable for all conditions. If your symptoms are complex or unclear, we may advise you to seek in-person care.

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. It often appears as:

• Red sores or blisters
• Honey‑coloured crusts
• Itchy or irritated skin
• Patches that spread easily

It most commonly affects the face, around the mouth and nose, but can appear anywhere on the body.

There are two main types: non-bullous (more common) and bullous impetigo.

Impetigo is caused by bacteria entering the skin, most commonly:

• Staphylococcus aureus
• Streptococcus pyogenes

These bacteria are widespread in the environment and often live harmlessly on the skin or inside the nose. Impetigo develops when bacteria enter the skin through even very small breaks.

Impetigo usually occurs when the skin’s natural barrier is disrupted. This can happen due to:

• Minor cuts or grazes
• Insect bites
• Eczema or dermatitis
• Areas of dry, cracked skin
• Existing skin irritation (e.g., around the nose during a cold)

Once the bacteria enter, they multiply on the skin’s surface and cause the characteristic sores and crusts.

Impetigo is highly contagious, especially in children. It can spread through:

• Direct skin‑to‑skin contact
• Sharing towels, bedding, or clothing
• Touching infected areas and then touching other parts of the body

Good hygiene and early treatment help reduce the risk of passing it on. Impetigo remains contagious until treatment has started or lesions have crusted over.

You should seek medical advice if:

• You suspect impetigo for the first time
• Symptoms are spreading or worsening
• You have recurrent episodes
• You or your child feels unwell (e.g., fever)
• The infection does not improve after treatment

If symptoms are severe, widespread, or affecting infants, contact NHS 111 or your GP.

Seek urgent medical attention if:

• The infection is rapidly spreading
• There is swelling of the face or around the eyes
• You feel significantly unwell
• A baby under 1 year is affected

Treatment depends on the severity and location of the infection. A prescriber will determine the most appropriate option. The choice of treatment will be based on a clinical assessment in line with UK guidelines.

Topical antibiotic treatments

Often used for small, localised patches of impetigo. These may include prescription‑only topical antibiotics. These medicines can only be supplied following a clinical assessment.

Oral antibiotic treatments

Used when impetigo is widespread, recurrent, or not responding to topical treatment. Oral antibiotics require a prescription and are supplied only if clinically appropriate.

We do not supply antibiotics without a valid prescription or clinical review. Antibiotics are only prescribed when clinically necessary to help reduce antimicrobial resistance.

These steps can help reduce discomfort and prevent the infection from spreading:

• Gently wash affected areas with warm water
• Avoid touching or scratching the sores
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
• Keep sores covered with loose, non‑stick dressings
• Do not share towels, bedding, or clothing
• Use separate towels and wash items at a high temperature
• Children should stay out of school or nursery until 48 hours after starting treatment, or until lesions have crusted over.

1. Complete a short online consultation
   Your answers help our prescribers assess your symptoms safely.
2. Clinical review by a UK‑registered prescriber
   If treatment is suitable, a prescription will be issued.
3. Dispensing by our GPhC‑registered pharmacy, if appropriate
   Medicines are dispensed and delivered discreetly to your door.
4. Ongoing support
   Our pharmacy team is available for advice before and after treatment.

Some cases of impetigo require in-person assessment. If your symptoms are severe, involve the eyes, or affect a young infant, we may refer you to your GP or urgent care service.

• Always use medicines exactly as prescribed.
• Do not use leftover antibiotics or share medication with others.
• If symptoms worsen, spread rapidly, or do not improve after treatment, seek medical advice promptly.
• This service is not a substitute for emergency care.

Our UK‑registered pharmacists are available to answer questions about impetigo treatment, medication use, and general skin‑care advice.

You can request an online consultation if you would like a clinical assessment.

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Bloating or excess wind
• Diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating bowel habits
• A feeling of incomplete emptying after using the toilet
• Mucus in the stool

These symptoms can overlap with other conditions, so a professional assessment is recommended if symptoms are new, persistent or changing.

The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to symptoms. These can include:

• Increased sensitivity of the gut
• Changes in how food moves through the digestive system
• A history of gut infections
• Stress or emotional triggers
• Hormonal changes

IBS affects people differently, and triggers can vary from person to person.

IBS is often diagnosed using symptom-based criteria, after other conditions have been excluded. Sometimes tests may be recommended to rule out other conditions. Only a healthcare professional can make a diagnosis.

A healthcare professional will ask you about your symptoms and may organise for tests to be completed, such as a blood test and a stool sample.

A UK-registered pharmacist can:

• Provide advice on symptom relief options
• Help you understand which OTC treatments may be appropriate
• Offer guidance on safe use of medicines
• Signpost you to further medical support when needed

IBS management varies from person to person. Approaches may include:

Lifestyle & dietary measures

• Eating regular meals and avoiding skipping meals
• Reducing caffeine, alcohol, and fizzy drinks
• Limiting high‑fat or highly processed foods
• Increasing soluble fibre (for some people)
• Keeping a food and symptom diary
• Considering a low-FODMAP diet under the guidance of a trained healthcare professional or dietitian

Stress & well-being management

Stress can worsen symptoms for some individuals. Techniques such as relaxation exercises, mindfulness, or cognitive behavioural approaches may help.

Pharmacy treatments

• Some over-the-counter (OTC) medicines may help relieve symptoms for some people. A pharmacist can advise whether these are suitable for you.
• A pharmacist can advise on suitable options based on your symptoms and medical history.

This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine and follow the instructions. Speak to a pharmacist or other healthcare professional if you are unsure.

You should seek prompt medical attention if you experience:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Blood in your stool or rectal bleeding
• Persistent change in bowel habit (especially over age 50)
• Ongoing diarrhoea
• Iron deficiency anaemia
• Severe or worsening abdominal pain
• Symptoms that wake you at night
• A family history of bowel cancer or inflammatory bowel disease

These symptoms are not typical of IBS and require further assessment.

If you would like further advice, you can book an online consultation with a healthcare professional. Access trusted, discreet support from the comfort of your home with Medicine Marketplace.

Jet lag occurs when your circadian rhythm, the internal body clock that regulates sleep, alertness, and hormone release, struggles to adjust to a new time zone. This can lead to temporary sleep disruption and daytime tiredness.

Common symptoms may include:

• Difficulty falling asleep or waking too early
• Daytime fatigue
• Poor concentration
• Irritability or low mood
• Digestive discomfort
• General feeling of being “out of sync”

Symptoms vary depending on the number of time zones crossed and the direction of travel. Jet lag is often worse when travelling east than when travelling west. Most cases improve naturally within a few days without medical treatment.

You should seek medical advice if:

• Jet lag symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening
• You have an existing medical condition that affects sleep
• You take regular medication and are unsure how travel may affect your routine
• You are unsure whether jet lag treatment is suitable for you
• Sleep problems persist beyond a few weeks
• You experience significant mood changes or ongoing insomnia

A clinical assessment is required before any prescription‑only treatment can be supplied.

Treatment for jet lag focuses on helping the body adjust to the new time zone more quickly. A prescriber will determine whether treatment is appropriate based on your symptoms and travel plans.

Prescription‑Only Medicines

Certain medicines may be prescribed to help regulate sleep patterns during short‑term travel. These treatments are only supplied following a clinical review and are not suitable for everyone.

Some treatments may cause drowsiness or affect alertness. You should not drive or operate machinery if affected. These medicines are prescribed with caution due to potential side effects and are not suitable for long-term use.

Non‑Medicinal Approaches

Many people manage jet lag with lifestyle adjustments alone. These can be used alongside or instead of medication, depending on clinical suitability.

These steps may help reduce the impact of jet lag:

• Gradually adjust your sleep schedule before travelling
• Stay hydrated and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol
• Spend time in natural daylight at your destination
• Take short naps if needed, but avoid long daytime sleep
• Eat light meals and maintain a routine
• Try to sleep on the plane if travelling overnight
• Avoid bright screens before bedtime

These measures can support your body’s natural adjustment to a new time zone.

1. Complete a short online consultation
   Provide details about your travel plans and symptoms.
2. Assessment by a UK‑registered prescriber
   A clinician will review your answers and determine whether treatment is appropriate.
3. Dispensing by our GPhC‑registered pharmacy, if clinically appropriate
   If prescribed, your medication will be dispensed and delivered discreetly.
4. Support from our pharmacy team
   Our pharmacists are available for advice before and after treatment.

If your symptoms suggest an underlying sleep disorder or another medical condition, we may refer you to your GP for further assessment.

• Always use medicines exactly as prescribed.
• Jet lag treatments are intended for short‑term use only.
• Do not use someone else’s medication or leftover prescriptions.
• If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice.
• This service is not suitable for emergency care.

Our UK‑registered pharmacists are available to provide guidance on jet lag, safe medicine use, and general travel health advice.

You can request an online consultation if you would like a clinical assessment for jet lag symptoms.

These medicines are given under the skin (subcutaneously), and the injection itself can cause temporary irritation.

Additionally, these medications contain a small amount of benzyl alcohol, which can occasionally act as a skin irritant, contributing to redness, itching, or mild swelling at the injection site.

• Redness or discolouration
• Mild pain or tenderness
• Swelling or firmness under the skin
• Itching or warmth

These usually appear within a few hours of injection and resolve within a few days.

• Rotate injection sites: Avoid using the same area repeatedly. Suitable sites include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
• Clean the area properly: Use an alcohol swab and allow the skin to dry completely before injecting.
• Inject at room temperature: If stored in the fridge, allow the pen or vial to reach room temperature before use (about 15–30 minutes).
• Use proper technique: Inject slowly and avoid rubbing the area immediately after injection.
• Apply a cool compress for 5–10 minutes if mild redness or swelling occurs.

• Mild redness or swelling: Apply a cool compress and monitor.
• Itching: You may use a gentle moisturiser or a mild steroid cream like Hydrocortisone 1% if no broken skin. An antihistamine tablet like Loratadine or Cetirizine can be taken to reduce the itching and redness.
• Avoid injecting into the same area until fully healed.

Seek medical help immediately if you experience:

• Severe pain, significant swelling, or a hard lump that persists
• Blistering, open sores, or signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus, fever)
• Widespread rash, severe itching, or any signs of an allergic reaction (e.g. difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat)

Most local reactions are mild and can be managed easily at home, but persistent or severe symptoms should always be reviewed.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out on support@medicinemarketplace.com or call 0330 1755747, option 3.

Malaria is caused by parasites from the Plasmodium family, transmitted through the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito. It is most common in parts of:

• Sub‑Saharan Africa
• Asia
• Central and South America
• The Middle East
• Certain Pacific islands

The risk varies by region, season, and type of travel. Symptoms can develop from 7 days after exposure, but sometimes weeks or months later. Malaria can develop after returning to the UK. Always mention recent travel if you feel unwell.

Symptoms can develop 7 days to several weeks after being bitten. They may include:

• Fever or chills
• Sweats
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Nausea or diarrhoea
• Fatigue

Malaria can become severe quickly. Anyone who develops symptoms after travelling to a risk area should seek urgent medical attention. Risk assessments are based on UK travel health guidance.

This information is for general awareness only and is not a substitute for medical assessment.

Antimalarial tablets help reduce the risk of infection, but must be chosen based on:

• Destination and local resistance patterns
• Length of stay
• Type of travel (e.g., rural, backpacking, business)
• Your medical history and current medicines

A prescriber will determine the most appropriate option following a clinical review. Antimalarial medicines cannot be supplied without a valid prescription.

A prescriber will select the most appropriate antimalarial medicine based on your individual risk and travel plans. Different antimalarial medicines are available, and the choice depends on destination, medical history, and potential side effects. Suitability varies from person to person.

Medication alone does not provide complete protection. These steps can help reduce the risk of mosquito bites:

• Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin (icaridin), or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Wear long sleeves and long trousers, especially after sunset
• Sleep under a mosquito net if accommodation is unscreened
• Choose air‑conditioned or well‑screened rooms where possible
• Avoid standing water where mosquitoes breed

These measures should be used alongside any prescribed antimalarial medication.

1. Complete a short online consultation
   Provide details about your destination, travel dates, and medical history.
2. Assessment by a UK‑registered prescriber
   A clinician will review your information and determine whether antimalarial medication is appropriate.
3. Dispensing by our GPhC‑registered pharmacy, if clinically appropriate
   If prescribed, your medication will be dispensed and delivered discreetly.
4. Support from our pharmacy team
   Our pharmacists are available for advice before, during, and after your trip.

Some travellers may require a face-to-face travel clinic assessment, particularly for complex itineraries, long stays, or underlying health conditions.

We may not be able to prescribe if:

• Your travel is imminent
• Your itinerary is complex or high-risk
• Your medical history requires further assessment

Malaria can become life-threatening quickly. If you develop a fever or flu-like symptoms during or after travel to a malaria-risk area, seek urgent medical attention immediately and inform healthcare professionals of your travel history.

• Always take antimalarial tablets exactly as prescribed, including before and after travel.
• No antimalarial medicine provides 100% protection.
• Do not use leftover medication from previous trips.
• You should seek advice at least 4–6 weeks before travel, as some antimalarial medicines need to be started before departure.
• This service is not suitable for emergency care.

Our UK‑registered pharmacists are available to provide guidance on malaria prevention, safe medicine use, and general travel health advice.

You can request an online consultation if you would like a travel health assessment.