Symptoms of DRUG HYPERSENSITIVITY

The symptoms which develop depend of the nature of the reaction. Skin rashes are the common allergic reaction. These allergic reactions can progress to include itching, hives and flushed skin. Anaphylaxis can occur. In this situation there is a rapid allergic response to an antigen, or substance, that has previously stimulated the immune system. This leads to wheezing, difficulty breathing, pallor, shock, lightheadedness and sometimes death. Serum sickness can develop. This develops when substance produced in an immune reaction accumulate and are deposited in various organs. Serum sickness can lead to fever, rash, joint pain and nerve damage. Various blood disorders, such as hemolytic anemia, can occur from direct reaction to some drugs. Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) and vasculitis (blood vessel inflammation) can both occur from direct action of the drug as well as being the product of immune system. Other hypersensitivity reactions which are not allergic responses include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and photosensitivity (a skin reaction to sunlight). Dizziness and vertigo may develop from the hypersensitivity response.