DRUG ALLERGY & ALLERGIC REACTIONS TO MEDICATIONS
WHAT IS A DRUG ALLERGY?
Any medication could potentially cause an allergic reaction. The drug that causes the most reactions is penicillin, affecting up to 10% of the population. Other drugs that trigger allergies include sulfa drugs, anticonvulsants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin), and chemotherapy drugs.
Allergic reactions to drugs or medications usually do not occur the first time a person takes a specific drug. You may have been exposed to the medication or a medication in the same drug class without knowing it. It is important to identify a drug allergy because the symptoms can be very uncomfortable or even life-threatening:
DRUG ALLERGY SYMPTOMS
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Hives or rash
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Itching
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Loss of consciousness
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Swelling (of the tongue or lips, for example)
It is possible that what you think may be a drug allergy could actually be drug interactions or side effect. For this reason, it is very important to make sure you tell Dr. Tamayev about all of the medications you have been taking. Common side effects that are not allergic reactions include:
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Diarrhea
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Dry mouth
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Headaches
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Heartburn
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Racing heart
Because these reactions can be complicated, it is very important for you to seek medical attention quickly. Dr. Tamayev will help figure out what is an allergic reaction, as opposed to a side effect of a medication. Allergic reactions can be very dangerous and Dr. T can assist you in identifying the symptoms of allergies.
DIAGNOSING A DRUG ALLERGY
A skin prick test can diagnose a penicillin allergy; however, it’s not accurate for other drugs. Drugs that are injected can be diagnosed by intradermal testing. During this test, Dr. Tamayev will introduce the allergen beneath the skin and watch for a reaction. Intradermal testing is more sensitive than skin prick testing, so allergic reactions can be severe. Dr. T will have epinephrine and other allergy medications available to treat any symptoms.
In addition, a drug challenge may be performed. A dose of the suspected allergen may be administered in the office under careful observation to confirm the allergy. This is done only as a last option, as some drugs are known to cause severe allergic reactions.
DRUG ALLERGY TREATMENT
Many drug allergies disappear over time. For those that don’t, desensitization is a treatment option. Desensitization is available for penicillin, aspirin, and some chemotherapeutic drugs. The process involves gradually administering the medication by mouth or as shots to build tolerance of the drug. This treatment is only necessary for patients with ongoing medical conditions who require certain medications where there aren’t any alternatives.
When possible, avoidance is always the best treatment for allergies. Ask Dr. T about alternatives to the drugs you are allergic to. There are usually many options of medications to treat your condition.
DRUG ALLERGY FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How Do I Know if I’m Allergic to Medication or Just Experiencing a Side Effect?
You should seek medical attention immediately if you experience any physical reaction after taking medication.
If I Have a Reaction to a Drug Once, Does That Mean I Have to Stop Taking it Completely?
If you have been diagnosed with a drug allergy, you should avoid the drug that caused the reaction.
However, you should get allergy tested regularly to determine if your sensitivity has disappeared.
How Long Does Desensitization Last?
The process typically takes 2 days, however, it can take longer for some patients.
Does Desensitization Work for Every Drug?
No, the process is not available for every drug.
SUMMARY
If you think you may have an allergy to medications, Dr. Tamayev is here to help. Dr. T has to the latest testing & treatments, and sees both pediatric and adult patients. Schedule an appointment today by using the button below!