Drug-Induced Allergies

What is Drug-Induced Allergies?

A drug allergy is a condition when your immune system shows an abnormal reaction to a specific medication. It can be due to any medication – herbal, OTC (over-the-counter), or prescription. However, a drug allergy is not the same thing as a drug side effect or drug toxicity.

Causes of drug-induced allergies

Different drugs show different effects, and that suggests, some specific drugs can lead to more allergic reactions than others, such as:

  • Aspirin
  • Antibiotics like penicillin, and sulfa antibiotics like sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim
  • Anticonvulsants like lamotrigin and carbamazepine
  • NSAI (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory) medications like ibuprofen
  • Chemotherapy drugs such as docetaxel, paclitaxel, and procarbazine
  • Drugs like ibritumomab tiuxetan and trastuzumab used in monoclonal antibody therapy

Symptoms of drug-induced allergies

You may see symptoms of a severe drug allergy within an hour of taking the drug. Some of the main symptoms of drug-induced allergies are:

  • Hives
  • Fever
  • Skin rash
  • Itching
  • Wheezing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Swelling
  • Itchy and watery eyes

Runny nose

When to see a doctor

As soon as you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms, you must make an appointment with a skilled and experienced general physician or a specialist in treating allergies. In case you are aware of any allergies against a drug, you must:

  • Ensure to tell this to the chemist or medical providers, such as dentists and doctors.
  • Keep a card that identifies the drug allergy. It can be a lifesaver in times of emergency.

However, if it is something you experience for the first time, you should ask your doctor a few questions, like:

  • Do I need to keep away from other drugs due to the allergy?
  • What kind of allergic reaction should I take care of when on this drug?
  • Should I take any other drugs to control the allergic reaction?

You doctor will help you control the reaction. You can get a consultation booked with DR. M.V. Rao in case of any drug-induced allergy symptoms.

Staying healthy

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Rajbhavan Road, Somajiguda, Matha Nagar, Hyderabad, Telangana.
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500057

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M: drmvraomallela@gmail.com

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