A drug allergy is an allergic reaction to a medication or drug of any type, whether it is prescription or non-prescription. Penicillins and sulfa drugs are common examples of drugs that sometimes cause an allergic reaction. In severe cases, life-threatening anaphylactic shock may occur.
Signs and symptoms of a drug allergy are similar to those of other allergic reactions. These can include a
Other associated symptoms and signs can include
- runny nose,
- nasal congestion,
- itchy eyes,
- watery eyes, or
- wheezing.
More serious reactions may cause
- nausea and vomiting,
- diarrhea,
- seizure,
- low blood pressure,
- dizziness or fainting,
- shortness of breath, and
- abdominal pains or cramps.
Cause of a drug allergy
An immune response causes a drug allergy.
Other drug allergy symptoms and signs
- Abdominal Pains or Cramps
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness or Fainting
- Hives
- Itching of the Skin
- Itchy Eyes
- Low Blood Pressure
- Nasal Congestion
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Runny Nose
- Seizure
- Shortness of Breath
- Skin Rash
- Watery Eyes
- Wheezing
Main Article on Drug Allergy Symptoms and Signs
SLIDESHOW
Could I Be Allergic? Discover Your Allergy Triggers See SlideshowPictures, Images, Illustrations & Quizzes
-
Allergy: Life-Threatening Allergy Triggers
From insect stings to nuts and fish, WebMD shows you what can trigger anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, and how to be...
-
Could I Be Allergic? Discover Your Allergy Triggers
Allergies are an overreaction of the immune system where the body's defenses react to substances such as pollen, food and more....
-
Out-of-Control Allergy Symptoms: Treatment Relief in Pictures
Learn 10 signs your allergies are out of control. See these surprising allergy symptoms and find out how to get relief for...
From 
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Subscribe to MedicineNet's Allergy and Asthma Newsletter
By clicking "Submit," I agree to the MedicineNet Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. I also agree to receive emails from MedicineNet and I understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet subscriptions at any time.