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A true allergy to a medication is different than a simple adverse reaction to the drug. The allergic reaction occurs when the immune system, having been exposed to the drug before, creates antibodies to it.On subsequent exposure to the drug these antibodies cause release of histamines. If severe, this reaction can result in a life-threatening situation known as anaphylactic shock.
Penicillin and sulfa drugs are by no means the only medications that can set off your immune system: almost any prescription or over-the-counter medication has the potential to do so. Learning to avoid them and knowing how to get emergency treatment in cases of accidental exposure are the key to controlling such allergies.Be sure to let your doctor or hospital staff know of your allergies.
Drug Allergies
An allergic reaction can be a side effect of certain medications that can cause the body's immune system to react. There's no cure for an allergic reaction other than avoiding the offending medication if you know you are allergic to it, or making sure others know of your allergy. How do you do this in an emergency situation when you are unable to communicate with medical personnel? Carrying your medical history with you in a wallet card when you are away from home or your loved ones will help inform others of your particular medical condition.
Although reactions to medications vary, and two of the most common offenders, penicillin and sulfa drugs, can cause skin rashes and hives, a more serious allergic reaction effect is called Anaphylaxis, which restricts breathing and causes blood pressure to drop suddenly. Anaphylaxis may occur within minutes of taking a medication, or can develop up to two hours later. Anaphylaxis is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
In addition to medications, certain substances commonly found in medical facilities can cause allergic reactions. Latex, for instance, has many medical applications, but some people react violently to it.
The following are some of the more common causes of medical allergies.
Penicillin Allergy
Penicillin and penicillin-based antibiotics are among the most widely used medications. Ten percent of the American population believes they have a penicillin allergy. Although reactions can be life threatening, the average reaction is a mild skin rash, appearing three to four days after starting the medication. Other antibiotics can be substituted in these cases.
Sulfa Drug Allergy
Skin rashes are the most common sign of a sulfa allergy. Sulfa drugs are antibiotics; the most commonly prescribed is sulfamethoxazole. A person who develops a sulfa drug allergy should also be cautious around combination antibiotics such as Bactrim. Bactrim contains sulfa.
Sulfa is commonly confused with sulfate-containing salts. Sulfates are in no way related to sulfa, and will not influence a sulfa drug allergy in any way.
Insulin
Insulin made from pork or beef products has been known to cause allergies. An insulin allergy may manifest as a red itchy patch around the injection site. In other cases, the allergy may be widespread, causing hives, increased pulse rate or breathing difficulties. People who react to beef or pork insulin can be prescribed purified insulin.
Iodine
Iodine is injected into the bloodstream as a contrast media so that blood vessels can appear in X-rays. About three to twelve percent of people react to iodine. Symptoms may include nausea, hives, vomiting, and dizziness. One out of every thousand people suffers anaphylaxis as a result of iodine injections.
Latex
Latex is commonly used in hospitals, most often in surgical gloves. Symptoms of a latex allergy are the same as for most allergies: hive and skin rashes are the most common reactions, although life-threatening reactions do occur. Alternatives to latex are available, so be sure to let any medical professionals know of your allergy.
Latex is also used to manufacture most brands of condoms. If either you or your sexual partner is allergic to latex, you should talk to your doctor about alternative contraceptive options and STD protection.How do you do this in an emergency situation when you are unable to communicate with medical personnel? Carrying your medical history with you in a wallet card when you are away from home or your loved ones will help inform others of your particular medical condition.
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