Drug allergy

Allergic reaction to drugs are rare

 The most common drug that causes an allergic reaction is penicillin followed by sulpha drugs and aspirin

  Drug reactions range from mild allergic reaction to severe anaphylactic shock

 Anaphylactic shock happens very rarely

What are drug allergies?

Allergic reactions to drugs are fairly rare, but almost all drugs can cause a reaction of sorts in a small number of people. Drug reactions ranging from a mild allergic reaction to a severe anaphylactic shock are possible.

Drugs are routinely tested and scrutinised before they appear on the market. If any significant number of the people on whom the drugs are tested, have an allergic reaction, the drug will not be released.

The most common drug allergy is a reaction to drugs in the penicillin family. Other drugs that can trigger allergic reactions are sulphas, barbiturates, insulin, local anaesthetics and dyes injected into blood for X-ray purposes.

What are the symptoms of drug allergies?

Some people are intolerant to drugs and may develop any of the following symptoms:

 Itching

 Rashes or hives (urticaria)

 Headaches

 Nausea

These are seen as mild reactions and can usually be treated by antihistamines, or by merely reducing or discontinuing the medication.

Reactions can be either immediate or take a while to develop. Previous exposure to the drug could mean increased severity of reaction every time the drug is used.

A far more severe reaction is called anaphylactic shock, which could be fatal. This happens very rarely.

When to call a doctor

If a patient develops an allergy to medication, his GP must be alerted, he must wear a Medic Alert bracelet at all times and must get his GP to check routinely the contents of all prescription medication or over-the-counter medication.

If one develops any of the following symptoms, immediate medical attention is called for:

All-over itchiness

Swelling of the face and ears

Constriction of the airway

Increased heart rate

Fainting

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