Do I Have Drug Allergy?

Do you have symptoms that occur within an hour after taking a medication?

Do you have a skin rash or hives?

Do you have, wheezing, shortness of breath or other breathing problems?

Do you have swelling in the mouth and throat?

Do you have itchy skin?

Do you have runny or stuffy nose?

Do you have itchy or watery eyes?

Do you have nausea and vomiting?

Do you have diarrhea or cramping abdominal pain?

Do you have dizziness or lightheadedness?

Do you have a weak, rapid pulse?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have a drug allergy. A drug allergy is an allergic reaction to a medication. A drug allergy is an abnormal reaction of the immune system to a certain medication, because the immune system misidentifies it as a harmful substance. An allergic reaction can be induced by any type of medication, whether it is herbal, prescribed or over-the-counter. However, certain medications are more likely to cause allergies than others. A drug allergy should be distinguished from a drug side effect. Drug allergies are unpredictable reactions, but only about 5% to 10% of adverse reactions to medications are true allergic reactions.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have a drug allergy. A drug allergy is a type of adverse drug reaction in which your immune system overacts to a certain drug, triggering an allergic reaction. The symptoms of an allergic reaction can range from mild to severe, including a rash, swelling or breathing difficulties. The symptoms usually occur within an hour after taking a drug. The most commonly reported drug allergy is penicillin allergy. Many people who are allergic to medications can lose their allergy over time. Your allergist can make a diagnosis based on a skin test and blood tests.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have a drug allergy. A drug allergy is the result of an impaired function of your immune system, which mistakenly identifies a harmless substance (a drug) as an invader and produces an allergic response. Drugs that are commonly associated with allergies are antibiotics (penicillin), pain-relievers (aspirin, ibuprofen), chemotherapy drugs and medications for autoimmune diseases. Occasionally, a drug can cause a serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. It is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. People who have had anaphylaxis should wear a bracelet with a medical warning that lists the trigger.