Medication reaction

Description Any allergic reacti...

Description

Any allergic reaction or symptom that is caused by a medication. The reactions can be mild such as nausea. They can be life threatening such anaphylaxis: low blood pressure, fainting and collapse. Small children and the elderly are most susceptible to medication reactions. A medication reaction should be considered as a possible cause for a sudden change in behavior or new symptom in children and the elderly. Over the counter medications can also cause serious side effects. Even medications that initially were tolerated without a problem can result in serious reactions. Some medication reactions are caused by taking too much of the drug requiring a decrease in a patient's dose. For specific reactions review the adverse reaction section of the medication being taken.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the medication being taken. Mild to moderate symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, easy bruising. More serious symptoms include breathing problems, low blood pressure, fainting, facial swelling, intestinal bleeding, or low blood sugar (glucose).

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be done. Further tests will depend on the symptoms being experienced. The provider may remove the medication and observe to see if the symptoms go away. If available a drug level may be performed to measure the amount of medication in the body.

Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Medical Toxicology

Treatment

Treatment depends on the reaction and the medication being taken. Patients should always discuss with their healthcare provider before abruptly stopping a medication since some drugs require a gradual reduction to prevent serious side effects.