Drug Allergy

A drug is an allergic reaction caused by taking a medication which causes a reaction such as a rash. By identifying the cause, a drug reaction can be treated by avoiding the offending agent.

If you have a drug allergy, you may react when exposed, causing the following:

• Itching
• Rash (like hives)
• Difficulty breathing

Consult your primary care provider if you have reaction to a medication you are taking.

In addition to asking you questions about your symptoms and lifestyle, your provider may use a variety of tools to diagnose and confirm if you have a drug allergy:

• Physical examination
• Skin allergy test – Possible allergen samples are applied to skin and then observed for reaction
• Blood test

Avoidance is the only treatment currently available for drug allergies.

Avoidance of the offending drug is important.