Drug Allergy
Drug allergy refers to a group of adverse reactions which occurs due to hypersensitivity of the body towards a certain drug or medication. These reactions can range from mild, such as skin rashes, to severe, such as life-threatening anaphylaxis. Allergic reactions are caused by the body’s immune system incorrectly identifying the drug as a harmful substance and initiating an immune response to destroy it. Diagnosis of drug allergy is achieved through skin testing, as well as by taking a patient’s medical history and performing physical exams. Treatment of drug allergy typically involves avoiding the offending medication in the future and using antihistamines or corticosteroids to relieve symptoms. Drug allergy affects up to 10% of the population, thus making it a significant condition to be aware of and to diagnose promptly and accurately.
← International Journal of Allergy