How effective is GP consultation for drug allergy?

The GP asks which medicine was taken, the dose and timing, symptoms, speed of onset and whether it was taken again. They may distinguish allergy from a side effect, infection-related rash or another reaction. The record should name the suspected drug and reaction clearly. The GP may advise an alternative, refer for allergy assessment or explain supervised testing.

Do not restart the suspected medicine or test it yourself unless a qualified clinician gives a supervised plan. Bring the packet, prescription list and rash photographs. Tell all healthcare professionals about the reaction until assessed, and ask how it will be recorded and which alternatives are safe.

Call emergency services for swelling of lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, wheezing, faintness or collapse. A blistering or peeling rash, mouth or eye sores, or rash with fever needs urgent assessment. Do not wait for a routine appointment during a severe reaction.

Ask whether the reaction sounds allergic, which medicines to avoid, whether related drugs are a concern, how it will be recorded and whether specialist testing is useful.