$Unique_ID{BRK00736}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Are There Any Tests to Predict Drug Allergy?}
$Subject{medication medications medicine medicines drug allergy reactions
allergic reactions rash hives swelling drugs allergies fever wheezing immune}
$Volume{R-0}
$Log{
The Process of an Allergic Reaction*0001201.scf
Histamine Release Causes Allergy Symptoms*0001202.scf
The Function of IgG in an Allergic Reaction*0001203.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Are There Any Tests to Predict Drug Allergy?


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  Having just recovered from the problems of a drug allergy brought
on by a prescription medication.  I was wondering if there wasn't some way to
have predicted that this might have happened.  Aren't there any tests
available, and how does the doctor know that it was an allergy that produced
all my symptoms?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  As a general rule, it is impossible to predict which patient may have
an allergic reaction to a drug, or to any other substance for that matter.  An
allergy is an exaggerated sensitivity to a substance that usually produces no
reactions in most other people.  A careful case history of previous
experiences with medications, or the presence of allergic reactions to
pollens, food, or animals may alert a physician to the possibility that the
patient is a sensitive individual, but does not guarantee that there will be a
reaction to the needed medication.  Of course, any adverse experiences with a
medication previously would be sufficient warning not to use that particular
medication again.  However, even when a medication has been used successfully
in the past, without any trouble, there is still no assurance that it won't
provoke a reaction on this new occasion.  When the disease is life
threatening, and only one medication can do the job, a skin test may be used
to evaluate the sensitivity of the patient, and help in deciding whether or
not to use the medication.  Many so called allergic reactions are in reality a
side effect, and do not involve the body's immune system; and testing of the
immune response to the substance reveals this.  Abdominal upsets (including
diarrhea), sleepiness, and jittery feelings are samples of some reactions that
are not normally provoked by allergic mechanisms.  When a true allergic
symptoms is discovered, such as a rash, hives, swelling, drug fever, or
wheezing, the first step is to discontinue the use of the medication
immediately.  A careful history is sought to try to link the taking of the
medication to the onset of the symptoms.  It is important to report the use of
any other medications taken at the same time, including over-the-counter
preparations, vitamins, pain killers and the like, as they may have been part
of the reaction.  Once the drug has been stopped, the disappearance of the
symptoms within 24 to 48 hours makes it highly likely that the new medication
was the cause of the reaction, and this fact should not only be noted on the
chart, but remembered by the patient, and reported to any physician who is
faced with prescribing treatment.

----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.