PharmachubTM
Clinical safety

Your safety
is our priority.

Before any treatment is prescribed, every patient undergoes a thorough clinical assessment by a UK-registered prescriber. This page outlines important safety information about the medications we prescribe and how we manage your care.

Clinician's hands holding a stethoscope

Medical emergency

If you experience a serious adverse reaction or medical emergency, call 999 immediately or go to your nearest A&E department. Do not wait to contact us first.

For non-emergency concerns, contact NHS 111 or report symptoms through your Pharmachub dashboard.

Our clinical safety standards

All Pharmachub prescriptions are issued by UK-registered prescribers, pharmacists, or doctors following an individual clinical assessment. Treatment is only offered where it is clinically appropriate for you.

Our pharmacy is GPhC-registered (Reg. No. 9010245). Our supply chain is fully licensed by the MHRA. We only dispense from licensed, traceable wholesale sources — never from unverified or grey-market suppliers.

Your data is protected under UK GDPR and we are registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).

Contraindications — who should not use GLP-1 medications

GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) are not suitable for everyone. Treatment will not be prescribed if you have any of the following:

  • A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
  • Current pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you are planning to become pregnant
  • Severe gastrointestinal disease, including a history of gastroparesis
  • A history of pancreatitis (unless otherwise assessed and cleared by a clinician)
  • Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 15 mL/min/1.73 m²)
  • Type 1 diabetes mellitus
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
  • Known hypersensitivity to the active substance or any excipients
  • You are under 18 years of age

Your clinician will review your full medical history to identify any other contraindications or interactions with existing medications before any prescription is issued.

Common side effects

GLP-1 receptor agonists are generally well tolerated, but side effects do occur — particularly during dose escalation. The most commonly reported are:

  • Nausea and vomiting (most common, especially early in treatment)
  • Diarrhoea or constipation
  • Abdominal discomfort or bloating
  • Reduced appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Injection site reactions (redness, bruising, or mild discomfort)

These effects are often temporary and tend to improve as your body adjusts. Your clinical team may recommend slowing dose escalation if side effects are significant.

Serious adverse events — when to seek help

Stop taking your medication and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe and persistent abdominal pain (which may radiate to your back) — a potential sign of pancreatitis
  • Signs of an allergic reaction: swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; severe skin rash
  • Symptoms of gallbladder disease: severe upper right abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever
  • Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) at rest
  • Persistent vomiting preventing you from keeping down fluids
  • Changes in vision or other symptoms of diabetic retinopathy (particularly if you have type 2 diabetes)

Interactions with other medications

GLP-1 medications can affect the absorption and efficacy of other medicines, particularly oral medications, because they slow gastric emptying. You must inform your clinician of all medications you are currently taking, including:

  • Insulin or other diabetes medications (hypoglycaemia risk)
  • Oral contraceptives (absorption may be affected; additional contraception may be advised)
  • Thyroid hormone replacements (levothyroxine)
  • Warfarin or other anticoagulants
  • Any immunosuppressant or other long-term prescription medications

Storage and handling

Your medication must be stored in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C until first use. After first use, it may be stored at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to the period stated in the product information leaflet. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.

Dispose of used pens safely. Use a sharps bin if one was provided; otherwise, contact your local pharmacy or council for advice on safe sharps disposal.

Medical disclaimer

The information on this page is for general informational purposes only. It does not replace individual clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Your Pharmachub clinician will provide personalised guidance based on your medical history and current circumstances.

Always read the Patient Information Leaflet supplied with your medication. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, contact your clinical team through the dashboard or speak to your GP.