DEFINITION OF DRUG ALLERGY
A Drug Allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to certain medications you are taking. This condition is different from the side effects of drugs that are generally listed on the packaging and drug poisoning due to overdose.
In general, drug allergies occur because the immune system tries to fight certain substances contained in the drug. This happens because the immune system perceives drugs as substances that can harm the body.
SYMPTOMS OF DRUG ALLERGY
Allergic reactions to drugs generally appear gradually as the immune system builds antibodies to fight the drug. This reaction may not appear immediately the first time you use the drug.
In the first stage of use, the immune system will assess the drug as a harmful substance for the body and then develop antibodies slowly. On subsequent use, these antibodies will detect and attack the substance of the drug. This process can trigger the symptoms of drug allergy.
Most drug allergies have mild symptoms and usually subside within a few days after you stop taking the drug. The following are some common symptoms of drug allergies that you can look out for.
- Rashes or bumps on the skin.
- Itchy rash.
- Runny nose.
- Coughs.
- Fever.
- Shortness of breath or shortness of breath.
- The eyes feel itchy or watery.
- Swelling.
However, a severe allergic reaction can also trigger anaphylaxis (an allergic reaction that causes widespread malfunction of the body's system). This condition is very serious and can be fatal, so it requires treatment as soon as possible.
Be careful if you have an allergic reaction. Immediately consult a doctor to find out the cause so that it can be avoided.
CAUSES
What Drugs Can Cause Allergic Reactions?
Almost all drugs can trigger unwanted reactions from the body, but not all reactions include allergies. Drug allergies are caused by the immune system's reaction to certain drugs. Some types of drugs that have the potential to trigger an allergic reaction include:
- Antibiotics (eg, penicillin).
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory.
- Aspirin.
- Corticosteroid cream or lotion.
- Anticonvulsants.
- Insulin.
- Vaccine.
- Medications for hyperthyroidism.
- As well as drugs for chemotherapy or HIV.
RISK FACTORS
Factors That Increase The Risk of Drug Allergies
Not everyone will experience an allergic reaction to the drug. Experts suspect there are several factors that can increase a person's risk of drug allergy. These risk factors include:
- Increased exposure to certain drugs. for example due to repeated, prolonged or high doses of use.
- heredity factor. Your risk of developing a drug allergy will increase if a member of your family has an allergy to certain drugs.
- Have experienced other types of allergies. such as food allergies.
- Have allergies to other drugs. For example, if you are allergic to penicillin, you are also potentially allergic to amoxicillin.
- Have a disease that makes the body susceptible to allergic reactions to drugs, such as HIV.
DIAGNOSIS
Diagnosis Process For Drug Allergies
Just like any other disease, the initial stage of a drug allergy diagnosis is to check your health and physical condition. In particular, the time of onset of symptoms, the type of medication used, as well as the severity and changes in symptoms experienced. If needed, the doctor can also recommend a detailed examination to confirm the diagnosis, for example:
Skin test. Drugs suspected of causing allergies will be applied to the skin with a needle, injection or patch. A positive result shows reddened skin, itching, or a lump appears. If that happens, you almost certainly have an allergy to the drug.
Blood test. This test is rarely used because the accuracy of drug allergy is very limited. However, if your doctor suspects that you will have a severe reaction to a skin test, your doctor will likely order a blood test. This test also serves to find out other conditions that can cause the symptoms you are experiencing.
Steps for Handling and Prevention of Drug Allergies
The main treatment for drug allergies is to treat and relieve the symptoms experienced. This step can be done by stopping taking or using drugs that cause allergies.
Antihistamines may be recommended to block immune system chemicals that the body activates when an allergic reaction occurs. The use of corticosteroids can overcome the inflammation caused by a more serious allergic reaction.
For those who experience anaphylaxis, the patient requires immediate treatment with an injection of epinephrine. Patients should also undergo treatment in a hospital so that they can receive respiratory support and stabilize blood pressure.
In addition to treating, we can also prevent the emergence of drug allergies. The main step in preventing drug allergies is to avoid the drug that is the source of the allergy. For example, by wearing an allergy bracelet or necklace if possible, telling your doctor or medical professional about the type of medicine that can trigger an allergic reaction in you. If there has been an anaphylactic reaction or a severe drug allergic reaction, your doctor may prescribe an injection of epinephrine. Always carry it with you in case a similar reaction occurs.