Can I have an allergic reaction to GLP-1 medications?

Yes, allergic reactions to GLP-1 medications can occur, though they're relatively uncommon. Symptoms range from mild to severe and include: injection site reactions (redness, swelling, itching that spreads beyond the injection site), skin rash or hives, itching, facial or throat swelling, difficulty breathing or wheezing, rapid heartbeat, dizziness or fainting, and anaphylaxis (severe, life-threatening allergic reaction). Most injection site reactions are normal and resolve within days, but reactions spreading beyond the injection site or accompanied by systemic symptoms suggest true allergy. If you experience signs of anaphylaxis (difficulty breathing, facial/throat swelling, rapid heartbeat, severe dizziness), call 911 immediately and use epinephrine if prescribed. For milder allergic symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly - you may need to discontinue the medication and try an alternative. Cross-reactivity between different GLP-1 medications is possible but not guaranteed - some patients allergic to one tolerate others.