Drug Allergies
- When you read the label it states common side effects for many drugs. For example, an upset stomach may occur from taking aspirin and drowsiness may occur after taking a cold medication. However, a drug allergy occurs when your immune system mistakenly identifies a drug as if it were a harmful substance instead of a helpful remedy. Created by our immune system, antibodies release chemicals that attack the medication. This causes the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Symptoms of a drug allergy:
- Skin rash or hives
- Fever
- Facial swelling
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Dizziness
- Itchy skin
- Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a system-wide allergic reaction that can be fatal. Listed below are some of the symptoms associated with anaphylaxis:
- Tightening of the airways and throat, causing trouble breathing
- Weak, rapid pulse
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Shock, with a severe drop in blood pressure
It is possible to have an allergic response to a drug that in the past caused no problems. Inherited traits may play a role. People with a family history of drug allergies may be more likely to develop a drug allergy; however, the person must have had a previous exposure to the drug in order to have a true allergic reaction.
