Drug Allergies & Tests

The medication you take for one condition can cause other problems in the form of an allergic reaction. Our staff of highly trained ENT physicians and allergy specialists; serving the greater Philadelphia region including Montgomery, Chester, and Delaware counties can diagnose and treat your symptoms, and help you protect yourself in the future.  

TRIGGERS The most common medications that can cause an allergic reaction are:

• Antibiotics
• Sulfa drugs
• Barbiturates
• Anticonvulsants
• Insulin
• Aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories
• Monoclonal antibody therapy
• Chemotherapy

SYMPTOMS Drug allergies can result in a wide range of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe.  These can include:

• Skin rashes
• Hives
• Itching
• Breathing problems
• Swelling of the face
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Hair loss
• Anaphylaxis
• Joint pain and swelling
• Mouth ulcers
• Fever

TREATMENT Your ENT and allergy doctor will help to identify medications that may be causing an allergic reaction. In some cases, testing to determine if you are allergic to medication may be available. In most cases, alternative medications will be recommended. However, if a medication is essential in treating a health condition and an alternative is not available, your specialist may recommend desensitization. Symptom relief for drug allergies may also be provided through the use of antihistamines or corticosteroids.  In the case of a severe reaction, an immediate injection of epinephrine may be necessary.