Be Alert for Severe Drug Allergic Reactions

Severe drug-related skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) may occur after taking certain medications, including Allopurinol, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, and Abacavir. These reactions may develop within the first 3 months after starting the medication.

Possible Early Signs of Drug Allergy

        1. Facial swelling

        2. Swollen eyes with rash

        3. Hives with difficulty breathing

Signs of a Severe Drug Allergy

        1. Fever

        2. Mouth sores

        3. Eye inflammation

        4. Skin peeling

These medications are effective, useful, and affordable. However, reports have shown that severe drug allergic reactions can occur in Thai patients. Studies have found that Asian populations may have a significantly higher risk of severe drug allergy than other ethnic groups, with some reports suggesting the risk may be up to 55 times higher. In severe cases, these reactions may lead to disability or even death.

Today, genetic testing can help predict this risk with a very high level of accuracy. Patients may still begin taking the medication when treatment is necessary, because these allergic reactions usually occur only after several days of use. However, careful monitoring for warning signs is very important.

Genetic testing can be done before starting the medication or within 2 months after beginning treatment
No fasting or food restriction is required before the test

 

Source : Overbrook Hospital Chiang Rai

**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team