Drug allergies

Alternative names:

allergic reaction to a drug (medication)

Symptoms:

• hives (common)
• skin rash (common)
• itching of the skin or eyes (common)
• wheezing
• swelling of the lips or conductive

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• nasal congestion
• difficulty breathing
• cough
• blueness of the skin (cyanosis), including the lips or nail beds
• fainting, lightheadedness
• dizziness
• anxiety
• confusion
• slurred speech
• rapid pulse
• sensation of feeling the heart beat (palpitations)
• nausea, vomiting
• diarrhea
• abdominal pain or cramping

Signs and tests:

An examination of the skin may show hives, skin rash, or angioedema. Difficulty breathing, wheezing, and other symptoms may indicate 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 adequately diagnostic for drug allergy. (No further testing is required to demonstrate the allergy.)