FAQs

Everyone experiences migraines differently, but here are some of the most common symptoms.

• Throbbing or pulsating head pain (often on one side)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light, sound or smell
• Visual changes such as flashing lights or blind spots (aura)
• Difficulty concentrating or feeling generally unwell

If you develop sudden, severe head pain or symptoms that concern you, seek urgent medical attention.

• Migraine without aura: Typically no warning signs.
• Migraine with aura: Warning signs present, e.g., numbness or tingling, zigzag lines, dizziness.
• Migraine aura without headache (Silent migraine): May see flashing lights or have other symptoms, but there is no headache present.

Migraines can last for varying lengths of time depending on their severity. Some can last for a couple of hours, while others can last for multiple days.

Some people experience multiple migraines every week, whereas others may not experience them frequently, but still suffer from them.

Keeping a migraine diary (tracking symptoms, triggers, and timing) may help identify patterns and support better management.

Migraine triggers vary from person to person. Some commonly reported triggers include:

• Stress or lack of sleep
• Hormonal changes
• Certain foods or drinks
• Not getting enough exercise
• Bright lights or strong smells
• Dehydration
• Irregular meals

It can be helpful to try to understand your triggers better, as you may be able to take necessary steps to avoid the triggers in the future.

Migraines may be managed in a variety of ways depending on the patient’s symptoms and personal circumstances.

A range of over‑the‑counter (OTC) treatments may help relieve migraine symptoms. Options may include:

Pain Relief Medicines

OTC pain relief options may help reduce headache pain when taken early in an attack. Always read the patient information leaflet and follow the instructions.

Combination Treatments

Some OTC products combine pain relief with anti‑sickness ingredients. These may be suitable for people who experience nausea with migraines.

Anti‑Sickness Medicines

We may be able to offer pharmacy‑only anti‑sickness treatments for migraine‑related nausea.

Important safety information

• Do not take more than the recommended dose of pain relief medicines.
• Avoid using these medicines too frequently, as this may lead to medication overuse headaches.
• Always check with a pharmacist if you are unsure which treatment is suitable.

Suitability depends on your individual health and current medications. A pharmacist can advise you.

Other treatments may include lifestyle changes, including dietary changes or increased relaxation.

Our pharmacists are trained to offer confidential advice on managing migraines, including:

• Guidance on suitable OTC treatments
• Support with identifying potential triggers
• Advice on when to seek further medical assessment
• Reviewing your current medicines to check for interactions

This service may be suitable for adults experiencing symptoms consistent with migraine who are looking for advice or over-the-counter treatment options.

It may not be suitable for everyone. Our pharmacist will assess your symptoms before making any recommendations.

If your symptoms are frequent, worsening, or affecting your daily life, a healthcare professional may recommend further investigation.

• Your migraines are becoming more frequent or severe
• OTC treatments are not helping
• Your symptoms change or feel unusual for you
• You experience migraines for the first time after age 40
• You have other underlying medical conditions
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You are taking certain prescribed medications

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience sudden, severe head pain, weakness, difficulty speaking, confusion, or vision loss.

Are you suffering from migraines and need some trusted guidance? Book an online consultation with one of our pharmacists.

We will assess your symptoms and provide advice on appropriate treatment options or next steps, where suitable.

Our pharmacists cannot diagnose medical conditions or replace your GP. If your symptoms require further investigation, we will advise you to seek appropriate medical care.

• Feeling of quesiness
• Urge to vomit
• Discomfort in stomach, chest or throat
• Increased saliva
• Increased sweating
• Loss of apetite
• Headache

The risk of developing these symptoms is generally highest during the initial weeks of treatment and following dose increases, with symptoms usually improving as your body adjusts to the medication.

If you’re experiencing nausea whilst taking injectable GLP – 1 medications, it should go away within 2-3 days.

It takes around 4 weeks for your body to get used to the medication, and is why you might feel more nauseous when you start treatment. As you continue your treatment, you should start feeling better.

Here are some practical tips you can try to help alleviate nausea:

• Time Your Doses Strategically
  • Take your medication at the right time to manage nausea. If you inject in the morning and experience nausea afterwards, it might hinder your activities throughout the day, like eating, causing increased fatigue and discomfort.
  • You might choose to take the medication in the evening, allowing you to be at home and comfortable, minimising the impact on your daily life.
  • If your evenings are busy or you work night shifts, you can try taking your dose at a time when you are more relaxed and comfortable.

• Eat smaller more frequent meals
  • Nausea can be alleviated by eating enough food. Patients have reported to experience increased nausea on an empty stomach, especially early morning.
  • Consuming small meals can help settle your stomach and reduce discomfort, rather than one large meal.
  • Keeping a food diary will help identify food triggers that your feel most discomfort with.

• Eat Plain Foods
  • Consuming small plain meals, like savoury foods that limit fat intake can help manage nausea.
  • Foods that are gentle on the stomach like crackers, toast, bananas and plain rice are easier to digest.
  • Avoid greasy, high-fat, spicy, or very sugary foods, as they can worsen nausea.
  • Avoid strong smells, as they can trigger nausea.

• Gentle Exercise
  • Light exercise can help relieve muscle tension and help you relax, and ease the symptoms of nausea.
  • Movements that help you relax and are not too stressful can help, such as walking or yoga. The fresh air can help you feel better and focussing on breathing can help you relax.

• Staying Hydrated
  • Drinking plenty of water, especially water, throughout the day.
  • Drinking small frequent sips of clear liquids including herbal teas. You can try drinking ginger or peppermint tea, which help indigestion symptoms

• Supplements and Medical Intervention
  • Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto – Bismol) used for mild to moderate gastro intestinal symptoms.
  • Drinking ginger or peppermint tea can help

• If you experience severe or persistent vomitting
• If you have symptoms of dehydration, like dizziness, dark urine, reduced urine output, increased thirst.
• If you have a fever.
• If you have severe abdominal pain.

For most patients, nausea is a temporary side effect that improves as the body adjusts to the GLP – 1 medication. Patients reporting nausea, experience significant improvement or resolution with appropriate dietary modifications and supportive care.

GLP – 1 related nausea typically follows a pattern related to injection timing or dose changes and can be associated with the odd bout of vomiting.

Nausea generally does not impact absorption of injected GLP – 1 medications, however, persistent nausea may affect overall health and nutrition intake.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out on:

https://forms.medicinemarketplace.com/251345635207050 Or call 0330 1755747, option 3

• White patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, or gums
• Redness or soreness in the mouth
• A cotton‑wool feeling or altered taste
• Cracking at the corners of the mouth
• Mild discomfort when eating or drinking

Other conditions can also cause these symptoms, so it’s important not to self‑diagnose. If you’re unsure, speak with one of our pharmacists or another healthcare professional.

Oral thrush can develop when the natural balance of microorganisms in the mouth is disrupted. It often occurs through no fault of the individual. Contributing factors may include:

• Recent antibiotic use
• Wearing dentures
• Dry mouth
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Using inhaled corticosteroids
• A weakened immune system

A pharmacist can help identify possible triggers and offer advice on prevention.

Some antifungal treatments may be available from a pharmacy without a prescription, while others require a prescription from a GP. These may include:

• Miconazole (oral gel – available from a pharmacy)
• Nystatin (oral suspension – prescription only)
• Fluconazole (oral capsules – usually prescribed)

A pharmacist will assess whether treatment is suitable based on your symptoms, medical history, and any other medicines you are taking.

Miconazole oral gel can interact with certain medicines (including warfarin), so it is important to seek professional advice before use.

Oral thrush is common in infants and may appear as white patches that do not wipe away. Treatment for babies may differ from that for adults, and some products are not suitable for young children. Always seek advice from a pharmacist or GP before using any medicine for infants.

Miconazole oral gel is not usually recommended for infants under 4 months due to the risk of choking unless advised by a healthcare professional.

• Maintain good oral hygiene
• Rinse your mouth after using inhalers
• Clean and remove dentures at night
• Reduce sugar intake
• Stop smoking
• Attend regular dental check‑ups
• Avoid using antiseptic mouthwash excessively

These measures support overall oral health but are not a substitute for appropriate medical treatment when oral thrush develops.

Our pharmacy team can:

• Offer confidential advice
• Assess whether pharmacy treatment is appropriate
• Recommend suitable antifungal options if safe for you
• Advise when GP review is needed

While a pharmacist may be able to help initially, the symptoms may be too severe, or you may require alternative treatment. You should speak to a GP or healthcare professional if:

• Symptoms are severe or recurrent
• Difficulty swallowing
• Spreading infection (e.g. suspected oesophageal thrush)
• You have a weakened immune system
• You are unsure whether it is oral thrush
• Symptoms do not improve after treatment
• A baby under 4 months has symptoms

Prompt assessment ensures you receive the most appropriate care.

If you suspect oral thrush, then you should book a consultation with our pharmacists, who will assess whether pharmacy treatment is appropriate for you. Appointments are available seven days a week from 9 am until 10 pm.

Yes, certain hormonal contraceptives can be used to delay menstruation in some people. This is most common with combined hormonal methods. However:

• You must be medically assessed for suitability before starting or altering contraceptive use.
• Not all contraceptives allow safe or appropriate period delay.
• Some approaches involve using medicines “off-label” (not in the official product leaflet), and these require careful clinical supervision.
• Not suitable for everyone (e.g., smokers aged 35+, people with certain health conditions).

Period delays can be used by people alongside clinical support. They are commonly used by the following people.  

• Someone who is not currently using any contraception
• Someone who wants to delay for up to 17 days 
• Someone who needs a temporary delay, e.g., for a holiday, event or exam

Someone who is not currently using contraception could use Norethisterone. This is:

• Taken 3 days before the period is due
• Taken 3 times daily
• Can delay bleeding for up to 17 days
• Bleeding usually occurs 2–3 days after stopping

Yes, most people can seek advice from a registered pharmacist about delaying their period. If you are medically fit, with no complex medical history, and are over 16, you can access pharmacy support. 

It’s best to seek professional support at least seven days before your period is due to begin, giving you enough time to seek advice and make a decision.

Complete a healthcare assessment

Before attempting to delay your period, a qualified clinician needs to assess:

• Your medical history
• Blood pressure (depending on contraception)
• Smoking status and age
• Current medicines and health conditions

This is required for safe prescribing and is part of standard UK pharmacy practice.

Understand the risks involved 

Methods involving oestrogen carry a small increased risk of blood clots. This risk is higher if you:

• Smoke and are 35 or over
• Have a history of clotting disorders
• Have certain cardiovascular or metabolic conditions
• You should not use combined hormonal methods if they are contraindicated for you.

Understand the bleeding pattern 

Continuing hormones to delay a period can cause:

• Spotting
• Breakthrough bleeding
• Light bleeding

These effects can occur even when the method is used correctly.

Dealing with emergencies

Seek immediate medical help or contact your GP/pharmacy urgently if you experience:

• Severe headache with speech or vision changes
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Leg swelling or severe, unexplained pain
• Severe abdominal pain

These can be signs of serious side effects, such as blood clots.

• Plan ahead: Start discussing a period delay at least 1 – 2 months before travel.
• Check supplies: Ensure you have enough contraception to cover your trip and any extended use.
• Read the leaflet: Always read the Patient Information Leaflet with your medicine.
• Keep reminders: Use alarms or apps if you’re extending pill use.
• Carry information: Keep a note of your contraceptive details with you when travelling.

It’s important to seek clinical guidance before making the decision to delay your period. Our registered pharmacists can provide trusted advice on the best steps for you to take. Book a consultation today.

Period pain usually feels like cramping in the lower abdomen. It may also be felt in the lower back or thighs, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with daily activities.

While period pain can often be self-managed with pain relief, it’s important to speak to a medical professional if the pain is too severe.

There are two types of dysmenorrhoea:

Primary Dysmenorrhoea

• Common in teenagers and younger women

• Not caused by an underlying medical condition

• Linked to natural chemicals called prostaglandins, which cause the womb to contract

• Pain often improves with age or after childbirth

Secondary Dysmenorrhoea

• More common in women in their mid-20s and older, particularly if symptoms are new or changing

• Caused by an underlying condition

• Pain may start earlier in the cycle and last longer than a typical period

Possible causes include:

• Endometriosis

• Fibroids

• Adenomyosis

• Pelvic inflammatory disease

• Intrauterine device (IUD) complications

If secondary dysmenorrhoea is suspected, further medical assessment is recommended.

In addition to cramping, symptoms may include:

• Lower back pain

• Headache

• Nausea

• Diarrhoea

• Fatigue

• Dizziness

Severe pain is not something you should feel you have to “just put up with,” particularly if it is worsening or affecting your quality of life.

Many people manage mild to moderate period pain at home using a range of self-care measures, often including the following.

• Applying a heat pad or hot water bottle to the lower abdomen

• Gentle exercise or stretching

• Warm baths

• Relaxation techniques

• Adequate rest

These approaches may help relieve muscle tension and reduce discomfort.

If self-care is not enough, pain relief medicines may help. Always read the Patient Information Leaflet and follow dosing instructions carefully.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Examples of NSAIDs include ibuprofen and naproxen; these work by reducing prostaglandin production, helping to ease both pain and inflammation. Higher doses may be available through a prescription.

Important safety information:

• Not suitable for people with certain stomach, kidney or heart conditions

• Should be avoided if you have a history of stomach ulcers unless advised by a healthcare professional

• Can interact with other medicines

Paracetamol

Paracetamol may be suitable for mild pain or for people who cannot take NSAIDs.

• It does not reduce inflammation

• An overdose can cause serious liver damage

• Do not exceed the stated dose

Hormonal contraception

Some hormonal contraceptives can reduce period pain by thinning the womb lining and reducing prostaglandin production.

These require a clinical suitability assessment by a GP or appropriately trained pharmacist.

They may not be appropriate for everyone, particularly those with contraindications to oestrogen-containing products.

You should speak to a healthcare professional if:

• Pain is severe or worsening

• Pain begins later in life

• Periods are unusually heavy or irregular

• Pain occurs outside of your period

• You experience pain during sex

• Over-the-counter medicines are not effective

• Sudden, severe abdominal pain should be assessed urgently

If period pain significantly affects your work, education, relationships or mental wellbeing, it is important not to ignore it.

Conditions such as endometriosis can take time to diagnose. Early assessment can help ensure appropriate investigation and management.

Is severe period pain normal?

Mild discomfort is common, but severe pain that disrupts normal activities should be assessed. You should not have to live with severe pain as a result of your period. 

Will period pain improve with age?

In some cases, period pain can improve over time; for example, those living with primary dysmenorrhoea often report an improvement over time, but this is not always the case.

Can lifestyle changes help?

Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and stress management may reduce symptoms for some people.

Important Information regarding period pain management

• Always read the Patient Information Leaflet before taking any medicine.
• Do not exceed recommended doses.
• Some pain relief medicines may not be suitable if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, breastfeeding or have certain medical conditions.
• If you are unsure which treatment is appropriate, seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

If you need further advice on dealing with period pain, why not book a consultation with our GPhC-registered pharmacist? Consultations are available 7 days a week from 9 am until 10 pm. Book now.

• Premature ejaculation
• Delayed ejaculation
• Retrograde ejaculation

PE can be influenced by a range of factors, including:

• Psychological factors: anxiety, stress, low mood, relationship concerns
• Physical factors: hormonal differences, inflammation or infection, sensitivity
• Lifestyle factors: fatigue, stress, alcohol or drug use
• Other health conditions: erectile dysfunction may also contribute

A clinical assessment helps determine whether treatment is appropriate and safe.

There are licensed medicines in the UK that may help delay ejaculation. These include:

Dapoxetine (Prescription‑Only Medicine)

Dapoxetine is a short-acting selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) licensed in the UK for the treatment of premature ejaculation in adult men aged 18–64. It is taken 1–3 hours before sexual activity and may help increase the time to ejaculation, although results can vary between individuals.

Always read the Patient Information Leaflet supplied with your medicine.

Important safety information:

• Dapoxetine is a prescription-only medicine and is not suitable for everyone
• Common side effects may include nausea, dizziness, headache, and fainting
• It should not be taken with certain medicines, including some antidepressants and recreational drugs
• Alcohol may increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness or fainting
• A prescriber will assess your suitability before treatment is supplied

This service is intended for adult men aged 18–64 diagnosed with premature ejaculation. Treatment will only be provided if clinically appropriate.

Some people may also benefit from behavioural techniques, counselling, or addressing underlying psychological factors.

1. Complete a confidential online consultation
   Your answers are reviewed by a UK‑registered prescriber.
2. Treatment recommendations
   If suitable, a prescription will be issued. Treatment will only be supplied where it is safe and clinically appropriate.
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 needed.

You should speak to a GP or healthcare professional if:

• PE is persistent or causing significant distress
• You have symptoms of erectile dysfunction
• You experience side effects from treatment
• You have underlying health conditions or take other regular medicines
• You are unsure whether treatment is suitable for you

If you experience symptoms such as fainting, severe dizziness, or mood changes while taking PE medication, seek medical advice promptly.

Premature ejaculation is a common and treatable condition. Many people find that a combination of lifestyle changes, behavioural techniques, and medical treatment can help. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, our pharmacy team can provide general guidance.

PE can sometimes be linked to underlying physical or psychological conditions. If symptoms are sudden, worsening, or associated with other health concerns, a GP assessment is recommended.

If you need to access advice for premature ejaculation, then you can book an online consultation with our pharmacists. You can access confidential support in the comfort of your own home.

Traveller’s diarrhoea is typically caused by consuming food or water contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites. It is most common in parts of:

• Asia
• Africa
• The Middle East
• Central and South America

Most cases are mild and resolve within a few days without prescription treatment, but treatment may be helpful in certain situations. Advice is based on UK travel health guidance.

Symptoms can vary from person to person and may include:

• Passing loose or watery stools
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Bloating
• Urgency to use the toilet
• Mild fever

These symptoms are usually temporary and usually develop within a few days of exposure. Severe or persistent symptoms require medical attention.

This information is for general awareness only and should not be used to diagnose yourself or others.

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:

• Signs of dehydration (e.g. dizziness, reduced urination)
• Blood or mucus in the stool
• High fever
• Persistent vomiting
• Symptoms lasting more than 3–5 days

A prescriber will determine whether treatment is suitable based on your symptoms, medical history, and travel plans.

Prescription‑only treatments

In some cases, a short course of prescription medication may be recommended to help manage symptoms. Antibiotics are only prescribed when clinically necessary, as many cases resolve without them. These medicines are only supplied following a clinical assessment and are not appropriate for everyone.

Oral rehydration solutions

Rehydration is essential, especially in hot climates. Oral rehydration salts help replace lost fluids and electrolytes.

Symptom‑relief options

Some over‑the‑counter products may help ease symptoms. These should be used with care and only when appropriate.

Extra care is needed in children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with underlying health conditions. In some cases, an alternative medical assessment may be required.

These steps may help support recovery:

• Drink plenty of safe, clean fluids
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine until symptoms improve
• Avoid buffets or food left at room temperature
• Eat light foods such as rice, bananas, and toast
• Rest and avoid strenuous activity
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
• Use alcohol-based hand gel where soap and water are not available

If symptoms worsen or do not improve, seek medical advice.

While the risk cannot be completely eliminated, these precautions can help reduce it:

• Drink bottled or boiled water
• Avoid ice in drinks
• Choose freshly cooked, piping‑hot food
• Avoid raw or undercooked meat and seafood
• Peel fruit yourself
• Avoid food from street vendors where hygiene is uncertain

These measures are especially important in high‑risk regions.

1. Complete a short online consultation
   Provide details about your symptoms or travel plans.
2. Assessment by a UK‑registered prescriber
   A clinician will review your information 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. Ongoing support
   Our pharmacy team is available for advice before, during, and after your trip.

Some cases may require an in-person medical assessment, and we may refer you to your GP or another healthcare service if needed.

• Always use medicines exactly as prescribed.
• Seek urgent medical help if you experience severe dehydration, blood in the stool, persistent vomiting, or symptoms lasting more than a few days.
• Children, older adults, and people with underlying health conditions may be at higher risk of complications.
• Do not use leftover medication from previous trips.
• This service is not suitable for emergency care.

Our UK‑registered pharmacists are available to provide guidance on traveller’s diarrhoea, safe medicine use, and general travel health advice.

Request an online consultation if you would like a clinical assessment.

There are several types of urinary incontinence, and symptoms can vary from person to person:

• Stress incontinence: leaking urine when coughing, laughing, sneezing, or exercising
• Urge incontinence: a sudden, strong urge to urinate followed by leakage
• Mixed incontinence: a combination of stress and urge symptoms
• Overflow incontinence: passing small amounts of urine frequently due to incomplete bladder emptying

Only a healthcare professional can diagnose the type of incontinence. If you’re unsure, speak with a GP or pharmacist for guidance.

• Leaking urine during daily activities
• A sudden, urgent need to urinate
• Frequent trips to the toilet
• Difficulty fully emptying the bladder

These symptoms can also be linked to other conditions, so it’s important to seek advice rather than self‑diagnose.

Urinary incontinence can develop for many reasons, including:

• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Menopause
• Prostate conditions
• Urinary tract infections
• Certain medications
• Constipation
• Obesity
• Neurological conditions
• Age‑related changes

A pharmacist can discuss possible contributing factors and help you decide whether further assessment by a GP is needed.

Treatment depends on the type and cause of incontinence. First-line treatments often include pelvic floor exercises and bladder training, which can significantly improve symptoms over time. Options may include:

Lifestyle measures

• Reducing caffeine and alcohol
• Managing fluid intake
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Stopping smoking

Pelvic floor exercises

Strengthening pelvic floor muscles can help improve bladder control. A pharmacist can direct you to trusted NHS resources or local support services.

Medicines

Some medicines may be prescribed by a GP or specialist to help manage symptoms, particularly for urge incontinence. These medicines require a clinical assessment and are not suitable for everyone.

Incontinence products

Your pharmacy may offer a range of products to support daily comfort and confidence, such as:

• Absorbent pads
• Protective underwear
• Bed and chair protection
• Skin‑care products for sensitive areas

These products help manage symptoms but do not treat the underlying cause. Our pharmacists can provide advice and guidance on which products may be suitable based on your needs.

These steps may help reduce symptoms or prevent worsening:

• Perform pelvic floor exercises regularly
• Avoid drinking large amounts of fluid at once
• Limit caffeine and fizzy drinks
• Maintain good bowel health
• Keep a bladder diary to track symptoms

These measures support bladder health but may not replace medical treatment when needed.

Our pharmacy team can support you by:

• Offering confidential, judgement‑free advice
• Providing guidance on managing symptoms
• Giving support with choosing suitable incontinence products
• Signposting to GP or specialist services when needed

Speak to a GP or healthcare professional if:

• Symptoms are new or worsening
• You experience pain, blood in your urine, or recurrent infections
• Incontinence affects your daily life or emotional well-being
• You have underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or neurological disorders
• You are unsure which type of incontinence you may have
• Sudden onset with neurological symptoms
• Incontinence with leg weakness/numbness (possible spinal emergency)
• Inability to pass urine (retention)

Seek urgent medical attention if you:

• Cannot pass urine or have severe lower abdominal pain
• Experience new weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder control
• Notice blood in your urine without infection
• Have unexplained weight loss or persistent pelvic pain

Early assessment can help identify the cause and ensure you receive appropriate care.

At Medicine Marketplace, we understand that urinary incontinence can be challenging to discuss.

We offer free initial online consultations with our pharmacy team to discuss your symptoms and provide advice on next steps. Consultations are available seven days a week from 9 am until 10 pm.

Symptoms can vary depending on which part of the urinary tract is affected. People with a UTI may experience:

• A burning or stinging sensation when passing urine
• Needing to urinate more often than usual
• Sudden or urgent need to urinate
• Cloudy or strong‑smelling urine
• Lower abdominal discomfort

More serious symptoms, such as fever, back pain, or nausea, may indicate a more complicated infection and require medical attention.

These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it’s important not to self‑diagnose. A proper assessment is required to confirm whether your symptoms are caused by a UTI.

UTIs are usually caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract. Contributing factors may include:

• Being sexually active
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Menopause
• Pregnancy
• Urinary catheters
• Enlarged prostate in men
• Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes

A pharmacist can help identify possible triggers and offer advice on prevention.

Treatment depends on the type and severity of symptoms. Here are some of the options that may be suitable for you.

Pharmacy treatment

Some uncomplicated UTIs in women aged 16–64 may be treated through a pharmacy service, depending on symptoms, medical history, and eligibility criteria.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics may be supplied through certain pharmacy services or prescribed by a GP when clinically appropriate. They are not suitable for everyone and are only recommended when necessary.

Self‑care measures for a UTI

These steps may help relieve symptoms:

• Drinking plenty of water
• Avoiding caffeine and alcohol
• Using heat pads for abdominal discomfort
• Taking simple pain relief if it is suitable for you

Self‑care measures can support comfort but do not replace medical treatment when needed.

These simple habits may help reduce the risk of UTIs.

• Stay well‑hydrated
• Avoid delaying urination
• Wipe from front to back after using the toilet
• Urinate after sexual activity
• Wear breathable underwear
• Avoid perfumed soaps or intimate products

These steps support urinary health but cannot guarantee the prevention of UTIs, as they can happen to anyone.

• We can provide confidential advice about UTI symptoms
• We can complete an assessment to determine whether pharmacy treatment is suitable
• We can offer guidance on self‑care and prevention
• We can provide a referral to a GP or urgent care service when needed

Our service is not suitable for emergency or severe symptoms. If you feel unwell or your symptoms are severe, seek urgent medical attention.

Speak to a GP or healthcare professional urgently if you experience:

• Fever, chills, or shivering
• Pain in your back or sides
• Blood in your urine
• Symptoms that worsen or do not improve
• Recurrent UTIs
• UTI symptoms during pregnancy
• Symptoms in children or older adults

Prompt assessment ensures you receive the most appropriate care.

If you are concerned about mild symptoms of a urinary tract infection, then you should book a free online consultation with our qualified pharmacists. We provide online, discreet care so you don’t even need to leave your home.

Book a free consultation to discuss your symptoms and receive appropriate advice and, where suitable, treatment options.

• Increased Salivation
• Retching or dry heaving
• Actual Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Potential dehydration if vomiting is severe

The risk of developing these symptoms is generally highest during the initial weeks of treatment and following dose increases, with symptoms usually improving as your body adjusts to the medication.

Dietary adjustments:

• Drink plenty of water, small frequent sips, to prevent dehydration and stay well –
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals, rather than large portions.
• Try bland, easily digestible foods like toast, crackers and rice.
• Clear herbal teas like peppermint tea can help settle the stomach.
• Avoid triggers such as spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, fatty or fried foods.

Supplements and Medical Interventions:

• Replenish electrolytes lost, with balanced supplements like ORS or Dioralyte sachets to prevent dehydration.
• Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) used for mild to moderate gastrointestinal symptoms.

Lifestyle Adjustments

• Maintain a food diary to identify triggers
• Avoid lying down immediately after eating
• Practice deep breathing when waves of nausea strike
• Follow the prescribed dosing schedule, as rapid dose increases often worsen symptoms

You can consider temporarily slowing down escalation, reducing dose or delaying your next dose if symptoms are intolerable.

• Vomiting lasting more than 2-3 days with no improvement
• Signs of dehydration, e.g. increased thirst, dark urine, light headedness, dizziness
• Vomiting blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• A stiff neck
• Fever accompanied by vomiting
• Confusion
• A sudden severe headache
• Severe or persistent abdominal pain
• Symptoms that severely impact your quality of life

For most patients, vomiting is a temporary side effect that improves as the body adjusts to the GLP – 1 medication. GLP – 1 related vomiting typically follows a pattern related to injection timing or dose escalations, and gradually improves over time.

Vomiting does not impact absorption of injected GLP – 1 medications. Mild nausea and occasional vomiting can reduce your appetite short term. However, frequent or more severe symptoms can reduce nutrition, hydration and oral medication absorption. Managing symptoms effectively, whilst continuing to benefit from GLP – 1 medications is key.

If you have any questions or need additional assistance, please contact us on

https://forms.medicinemarketplace.com/251345635207050 Or call us on 0330 1755747, where we will be happy to help.

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