What happens if your allergic to sulfa

While all sulfa drugs have the potential for this, research suggests that antibiotic sulfonamides used to treat bacterial infections are more likely to trigger an allergic reaction than non-antibiotic ones.

There are no skin or blood tests available to diagnose a sulfa allergy. The diagnosis is usually based on a careful examination of symptoms, as well as a review of your current and previous medication use. Ideally, a healthcare provider will document what specific sulfa drug was associated with what specific reaction.

This ensures that the drug is avoided in the future, even if it is sold under a different trade name. The first-line treatment of a sulfa allergy is the termination of the suspected drug. This is referred to as allergy desensitization. Anaphylaxis requires an immediate epinephrine injection to halt the reaction, followed by supportive care and non-inflammatory medications such as corticosteroids.

Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis also require emergency medical treatment, including pain medications, corticosteroids, and intravenous hydration. Severe cases often require the care of a burn center. People with a known sulfa allergy should always check with their healthcare provider before starting a new medication. This is especially true for those who have had a previous severe reaction to sulfa drugs.

For many with a sulfa allergy, there typically is a low risk of reacting to non-antibiotic sulfonamides. However, topical sulfa antibiotic medications should be avoided if you are known to be hypersensitive.

These include:. Since the risk of cross-reactivity to non-antibiotic sulfonamides is low, it is considered generally safe to take the following drugs:. Sulfates are compounds containing sulfuric acid that are used as preservatives in packaged foods and wine.

They can cause reactions in some people, but are not related in any way to sulfonamides. The nuances of a sulfa allergy can be tricky to tease out, even for some healthcare providers. Sharing that information will make it easier for your healthcare provider to prescribe a substitute that is less likely to cause an adverse reaction. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life.

Sulfonamide allergies. Pharmacy Basel. Wulf N, Matuszewski K. Sulfonamide cross-reactivity: is there evidence to support broad cross-allergenicity? Having an allergy to sulfa drugs is different from having an allergy to food or drinks that contain sulfites. If you have an allergic reaction to sulfa drugs, treatment will be centered on relieving your symptoms.

Your doctor may prescribe antihistamines or corticosteroids to relieve hives, rash, and itching. A bronchodilator may be prescribed if you have respiratory symptoms. Desensitization involves slowly introducing the medication at low doses until an effective dose is reached and tolerated. Both anaphylaxis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome require immediate medical attention. Treatment for Stevens-Johnson syndrome includes:. There are no diagnostic tests for sulfa allergy.

However, some tips for prevention of a further allergic reaction to sulfa drugs include:. Having a sulfa allergy means you have an allergic reaction to medications containing sulfa. While there are many medications that contain sulfa, allergic reactions to sulfa antibiotics are most common.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction to sulfa drugs include rash or hives, itchy skin or eyes, and swelling. Complications of sulfa allergy include anaphylaxis and Steven-Johnson syndrome. Both of these are considered medical emergencies.

Always make sure that your healthcare providers are aware of your sulfa allergy so medications containing sulfa can be avoided. Let your healthcare provider know right away if you suspect a sulfa allergy. Sulfa allergies are different from sulfite allergies.

Carrying a medical alert card or medical alert bracelet that details any allergies will help to ensure appropriate treatment, as the person may not be able to communicate this themselves in an emergency. If a person with a sulfa allergy comes into contact with drugs containing the compound, they may experience a rash or hives, itchy skin or eyes, and swelling.

Some people can also experience more severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis and Steven-Johnson syndrome. These are medical emergencies. An individual must inform all healthcare providers of their allergies to ensure that they do not receive any medications that may cause an adverse reaction. A doctor can determine the best course of action. They may recommend an appointment with a specialist to carry out further tests and give advice on which medications and products to avoid.

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