Drug Allergies
People with drug allergies may experience symptoms regardless of whether their medicine comes in liquid, pill or injectable form.
Drug Allergy Symptoms
Skin rash or hives
Itching
Wheezing or other breathing problems
Swelling
Anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction that can simultaneously affect two or more organ systems (for example, when there is both a rash and difficulty breathing)
Common Triggers of Drug Allergies
Antibiotics containing sulfonamides (sulfa drugs)
Anticonvulsants
Aspirin, ibuprofen and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Chemotherapy drugs
Diagnosing Drug Allergies
Skin test (accurate only for penicillin)
Drug Allergy Management and Treatment
Avoid triggers.
Take antihistamines to control some symptoms.
Seek immediate medical care if symptoms worsen or multiple symptoms occur together (anaphylaxis).