The most common allergic reaction symptom to medication is skin rashes, according to Penn State University. Most drug allergies are harmless, causing severe itching, inflammation of the skin and redness, but in rare cases an allergic reaction to medication can cause anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening condition. Someone who experiences an allergic rash due to medication should stop using the medication immediately and contact a physician.
Cause
If someone takes a medication that causes an allergic reaction in the body, it is caused by the immune system categorizing the drug as a harmful chemical, according to MedlinePlus. The first time the drug is taken will not typically cause an allergic reaction because the immune system is creating antibodies to fight it the next time it is introduced. During subsequent administration of the medication, the body will attempt to fight off the drug, resulting in an allergic rash.
Symptoms
The most common rash from an allergy to medication is hives, according to MayoClinic.com. The American Academy of Dermatology states that hives are localized welts that can develop anywhere on the body and can appear to move. They have defined borders of raised skin and are extremely itchy. Scratching hives will cause them to become worse and could lead to cracked skin and secondary infections.
Treatment
Stop taking the medication and contact a medical professional immediately. Treat minor cases of an allergic skin rash with over-the-counter antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, according to MayoClinic.com. MedlinePlus states that corticosteroids are administered in more severe allergic skin reactions to medications. Corticosteroids are drugs that reduce inflammation in the body. Depending on the severity of the rash, a corticosteroid drug is administered topically in the infected areas or given by injection in more extreme cases.
Warning
An allergic rash to a medication is a warning sign to stop its use. If someone continues to use the drug, he runs the risk of anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening condition, according to Penn State University. Anaphylactic shock symptoms include shortness of breath, mental confusion and chest tightness. If someone experiences these symptoms, call 911.
Considerations
After experiencing an allergic rash to a medication, theh person should wear or carry a medical ID tag in order to inform authorities during an emergency where the person is unconscious, according to Penn State University. Always disclose all previous allergic reactions to any drug to a medical doctor before using any medication.
