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American Journal of Clinical Dermatology
Published in: American Journal of Clinical Dermatology 3/2001

01-06-2001 | Review Article

Drug-Induced Urticaria

Recognition and Treatment

Authors: Debbie Shipley, Dr Anthony D. Ormerod

Published in: American Journal of Clinical Dermatology | Issue 3/2001

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Abstract

Urticaria is the second most common cutaneous manifestation of drug allergy. Drug-induced urticaria is seen in 0.16% of medical inpatients and accounts for 9% of chronic urticaria or angioedema seen in dermatology outpatient departments. Occurring within 24 hours of drug ingestion, it is most commonly caused by penicillins, sulfonamides and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Drug-induced urticaria is seen in association with anaphylaxis, angioedema, and serum sickness. Diagnosis requires a detailed history, knowledge of the most likely agents sometimes supplemented with in vitro and skin testing. For mild reactions, avoidance of the causative drug and treatment with antihistamines will suffice. For anaphylactic shock, treatment with epinephrine (adrenaline), corticosteroids and antihistamines is required. Patients should be educated to inform medical staff about previous drug reactions, and to avoid these and cross-reacting drugs if possible. Medical staff need to routinely enquire about allergy and avoid unnecessary prescriptions.
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Metadata
Title
Drug-Induced Urticaria
Recognition and Treatment
Authors
Debbie Shipley
Dr Anthony D. Ormerod
Publication date
01-06-2001
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published in
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology / Issue 3/2001
Print ISSN: 1175-0561
Electronic ISSN: 1179-1888
DOI
https://doi.org/10.2165/00128071-200102030-00004

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