How to find and what to do if you are allergic to medicine

These days, drug allergies are not uncommon. It is a strong reaction of the immune system to certain substances contained in medications.

What is a drug allergy?

A drug allergy is a reaction of the immune system to medications that manifests as various symptoms such as rashes, itching, swelling, and others. This condition can be mild to serious, up to and including anaphylactic shock, which entails immediate medical attention.

Popular drugs that cause allergic reactions

Some of the most common drugs that cause allergies are antibiotics (especially penicillins), anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, and certain types of vaccines.

Causes of drug allergies

One of the causes of drug allergies can be a genetic predisposition. If your relatives are allergic to certain medications, you may have an increased risk of developing these allergies.

Sometimes a medication allergy can occur as a side effect of a certain medication. This usually happens when a medication causes an immune reaction that leads to allergic symptoms.

Drug allergy symptoms

1. The most common cutaneous manifestations of drug allergies are rashes and itching. The rash may look like red spots or be covered in blisters, sometimes accompanied by itching or a feeling of fever.
2. Drug allergies can manifest as respiratory symptoms such as difficulty breathing, coughing, nasal congestion, and in rare cases, anaphylactic shock.
3. In some cases, systemic reactions such as nausea, headache, fever, and even anaphylactic shock may occur.

Diagnosis of drug allergy

To diagnose a medication allergy, the doctor will gather a medical history and analyze symptoms. It is important to tell your doctor about any medications you were taking before your symptoms appeared.

Provocative tests and allergy tests may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treating drug allergies

The first step in treating a medication allergy is to avoid medications that cause the allergy. It is important to discuss with your doctor the possibility of replacing the allergenic medication with one that does not cause an allergic reaction.

Drug therapy to control allergic reactions

If necessary, antihistamines such as Suprastin or Tavegil may be used to relieve symptoms. Severe reactions may require the use of corticosteroids or epinephrine.

What to do if you have an allergic reaction to a medicine

At the first sign of an allergic reaction to a medicine, stop taking the medicine immediately and see a doctor. If the allergic reaction manifests as anaphylactic shock, immediate medical attention is necessary.

Tips for preventing drug allergies

• When taking a new medication, always start with the lowest dose and watch your body's reaction.
• When choosing a medication, pay attention to its composition. If you know that you are allergic to certain substances, avoid medicines that contain them.

In conclusion, drug allergies are a serious condition that requires immediate medical intervention. If you have symptoms of drug allergies, see a doctor immediately. Be careful and take care of your health!