Drug allergies Health Article

Signs and tests

An examination of the skin and face may show hives, rash, or angioedema (swelling of the lips, face, or tongue). Decreased blood pressure, wheezing, and other signs may indicate an anaphylactic reaction.

Skin testing may confirm allergy to penicillin-type medications. Testing may be ineffective (or in some cases, dangerous) for other medications. A history of allergic-type reaction after use of a medication is often considered proof enough of drug allergy -- no further testing is required. The same applies to other substances that are not considered drugs but are used in hospitals, such as x-ray contrast dyes.

Treatment

The treatment goal is to relieve symptoms and prevent a severe reaction.

Treatment may include:

• Antihistamines to relieve mild symptoms such as rash, hives, and itching
• Bronchodilators such as albuterol to reduce asthma-like symptoms (moderate wheezing or cough)
• Corticosteroids applied to the skin, given by mouth, or given intravenously (directly into a vein)
• Epinephrine by injection to treat anaphylaxis

The offending medication and similar drugs should be avoided. Make sure all your health care providers -- including dentists and hospital personnel -- know about any drug allergies that you or your children have.

Identifying jewelry or cards (such as Medic-Alert or others) may be recommended.

Occasionally, a penicillin (or other drug) allergy responds to desensitization, where increasing doses of a medicine are given to improve a person's tolerance of the drug. This should only be done by an allergist.

Expectations (prognosis)

Most drug allergies respond readily to treatment. A few cases cause severe asthma, anaphylaxis, or death.

Complications

• Anaphylaxis (life-threatening)
• Asthma
• Death

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you are taking a medication and seem to be having a reaction to it.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you have difficulty breathing or develop other symptoms of severe asthma or anaphylaxis. These are emergency conditions.