What to do about drug allergy
Disease description:
Today, I accompanied a friend for an injection, but the nurse did not perform a skin test, even though she is allergic to penicillin. May I ask, what should be done in case of a drug allergy?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
When a drug allergy occurs, the medication causing the allergic reaction should be discontinued immediately, and further exposure to similar medications should be avoided. Treatment measures should be taken according to the severity of the allergic reaction. For mild allergic reactions, such as skin itching or redness, drinking plenty of warm water may help eliminate residual medication, and proper skin care should be performed, such as rinsing the affected area with clean water. If the allergic reaction is severe, such as generalized hives-like reactions or difficulty breathing, medical attention should be sought promptly, and antiallergic medications, such as antihistamines (e.g., levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets, chlorpheniramine maleate tablets), should be administered under a doctor's guidance. Additionally, to prevent drug allergies, a detailed allergy history should be obtained before administering medications, and drug selection should be made cautiously.
