How are drug allergies managed?
The key to managing a drug allergy is avoiding the drugs you are allergic to. You should speak to your doctor if it a prescribed medication in order to get a different one. Also speak to a pharmacist if you have bought medications over the counter, as they may be able to advise you about different medications. You need to tell your doctor and any other doctors who are involved in your care about your drug allergies, so they do not give you medications which can cause you problems.
For hives and skin reactions, you might be able to relieve the itching by applying ice to your skin or taking a cold shower. You might also need creams or lotions, such as calamine lotion. Antihistamines can also be useful. You may also need corticosteroids prescribed to you by your doctor if the reaction is more severe.
Anaphylaxis requires urgent treatment with adrenaline. It is important that you get an EpiPen if you are likely to suffer from anaphylactic shock and train yourself and your friends and family in administering adrenaline from the EpiPen. Always carry your EpiPen with you. In addition to adrenaline, an ambulance may be needed for further treatment and monitoring.
Do not take drugs that you have already had reactions to. It is also a good idea to avoid taking drugs of the same class. Your doctor will advise you further about which drugs are safe and which aren't.
Drug allergies Guide Index:
- Which drugs commonly cause allergic reactions?
- What are drug sensitivities?
- What are some of the signs and symptoms of a drug allergy?
ALLERGIES GUIDE
- Allergy Treatment
- Anaphylaxis
- Asthma
- Bee Stings
- Cow's Milk Allergy
- Drug Allergies
- Eczema
- Egg Allergies
- Food Allergies
- Hayfever
- Hives And Urticaria
- House dust Mite Allergy
- Latex Allergies
- Mould Allergies
- Poison Plant Allergies
- Peanut Allergy
- Pet Allergies
- Photosensitivity
- Seafood Allergies
- Shellfish Allergy
- Soya Allergy
- Tree Nut Allergy
- Wheat Allergies