An Overview of Drug Reaction

A drug reaction is a sometimes harmful reaction that is not related to the normal action of the drug. In other words, it is not like a side effect which, although unpleasant, is anticipated because of the way the drug works. Most drug reactions are not allergic in nature because they do not involve an allergen -antibody reaction. How they work is not fully understood.

But some drugs do cause allergic reactions, most notably penicillin. Sensitivity can develop anywhere from a few minutes to a few days. Once the children become sensitized to penicillin, he or she may remain sensitized to it for a long time and will have an immediate reaction even to very small doses of the drug.

If your child has a known drug allergy and the drug is avoided, a reaction is still possible because drugs can be taken in hidden forms. For example, milk from a cow that had been given penicillin could contain the drug and affect your child. Any drug can cause an adverse drug reaction, even many non-prescriptive medications. A reaction may occur regardless of the way the drug is used, that is, whether it is applied to the skin as a cream or swallowed as a tablet.

Some common causes of drug reactions are alcohol, antibiotics, anticonvulsants, Aspirin, hormones, laxatives, local anaesthetics, narcotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, vaccines, vitamin and beef or pork.

Anyone can develop adverse drug reactions. However, only about one-quarter of drug reactions involve allergic sensitization. Allergy to penicillin is common whether or not one has other allergies. The fact that there is no family history of allergic disease is no guarantee that a person will not react to the drug.

If your child becomes sensitized to a drug, it is important to recognize what is happening. Drug reactions can vary in severity and type. Some require immediate attention. But no case should be ignored.

Skin reactions involve itching, weals or rashes all over the body. They can be made worse by exposure to the sun. Respiratory (breathing) reactions involve rhinitis or an inflammation of the mucus membrane of the nose. The child might suddenly seem to have a cold or hay fever. A drug allergy could also cause an asthma attack. Sever drug reactions can cause the child to collapse or go into shock.

What to do if your child has a drug reaction.

i) Stop giving the child the drug

ii) Consult your doctor

iii) If the reaction is severe, get medical help immediately

iv) Keep a permanent record of the exact drug prescribed and the reaction your child had.

Treatment of drug reactions

Very few tests are currently available to diagnose adverse drug reactions. Treatment varies with the severity of the problem. In all cases, the offending drug is stopped and should not be taken again. The doctor may prescribe medication for your child to take orally and /or preparations to be used in treatment of skin reactions. Antihistamines are often used in cases of nettle-rash. Harsh fabrics such as wool or starched linen should not be worn. Sunlight should also be avoided as much as possible.