Allergic reaction to a medication

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Allergic reaction to a medication

An allergic reaction to a medication may cause symptoms that range from a minor rash to severe anaphylactic shock, depending on the person and the type and dose of the medication.

However, not every rash that develops while taking a new drug is caused by an allergic reaction. This is especially true in children. A child who is taking a medication for an illness may already be likely to develop a rash from the illness.

Finding out that you are allergic to a medication is useful information. It helps your health professional decide which medication is safe to prescribe for you. If you have been diagnosed with a medication allergy, wear a medical alert bracelet or other identification. Once you have been diagnosed with a medication allergy, you should not take that medication again.

Some rashes and other symptoms that occur when taking a medication are so common that your health professional may be able to determine the cause over the phone. However, your health professional may need to see the rash to diagnose it as a true allergic reaction to a medication.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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