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Drug and Latex Allergies

Most people have had a reaction to some form of medication in their lives, and therefore suspect they are allergic to this medication. However, this may not be the case. Allergist Daniel More, MD, describes the difference between medication allergy and intolerance, and discusses ways that medication allergies can be diagnosed and treated. Special focus is given to allergies to common medications, including penicillins, aspirin and NSAIDs, as well as sulfa medications, vaccines, iv contrast and local anesthetics. Various forms of latex allergy are also discussed.
Can I Take Cephalosporins if I’m Allergic to Penicillin?
Learn if a person with a pencillin allergy can safely take cephalosporin antibiotics.
Aspirin Allergy -- How to Live with Aspirin Allergy
Learn how to live with aspirin allergy
Penicillin Allergy -- How to Live with Pencillin Allergy
Find out how people with penicillin allergy are living with their condition.
Sulfa Drug Allergy -- How People Deal with Sulfa Drug Allergy
Find out how people with sulfa drug allergy are dealing with their condition.
Sulfa Allergy and Sulfite Allergy
There is much confusion regarding allergy to sulfa-containing drugs, sulfite as a preservative agent in foods and medications, sulfate salts of medications and the chemical element sulfur. Many of my patients assume that if they are allergic to one of these agents, then they are allergic to all of them. This is not necessarily true.
Treatment of Medication Allergies
Learn how reactions to medications are treated.
Drug Allergy
A basic overview of allergic and non-allergic reactions to medications. Specific medications are covered, along with information on symptoms, avoidance, and possible testing for allergies to certain medications.
I’ve heard about a new type of latex glove. What is it made of?
If you suffer from a latex allergy, find out about the new form of guayule latex that doesn't cause allergic reactions in people with latex allergies.
Food Allergies and Vaccines
Find out how having certain food allergies may predispose you to having allergic reactions to some vaccines.
Latex Allergy
Latex allergy is common among healthcare works and people who have undergone multiple surgeries. Many people with latex allergy notice that they are also allergic to certain foods, which are related to the proteins found in latex. Find out the common symptoms for latex allergy, how it is diagnosed, and ways to treat it.
What is the Latex-Food Syndrome?
Are you allergic to latex? If so, there is a good chance that you may also be allergic to at least one of a large group of fruits and vegetables that share similar proteins with latex. Find out about the latex-food syndrome and what should be done to diagnose this problem.
Penicillin, Amoxicillin and Cephalosporin Allergy
About one in 10 people reports a history of penicillin allergy. Find out more about this common allergy and learn the symptoms, common causes, and ways to diagnose this type of medication allergy. Learn more about other related antibiotics that you should also avoid if you are penicillin-allergic.
Aspirin and NSAID Allergy
Allergy to aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is a common occurrence, especially for people with asthma and sinus problems. Find out the symptoms of NSAID allergy, how this disease process is diagnosed, and the treatment options available.
Sulfa Allergy
Allergic reactions to sulfa medications, also called sulfonamides, are a common occurrence. Many people avoid the entire class of sulfa medications - although this may not be necessary. Find out more about how sulfa allergy occurs, how the diagnosis is made, and what medications should be avoided.
Sulfite Allergy
Allergic reactions to sulfites can occur in many forms. Sulfites in foods and medications can worsen asthma symptoms, result in hives and even cause life-threatening anaphylaxis. Learn more about sulfite allergy, how it's diagnosed, and what foods and medications should be avoided for people with an allergies to these common preservatives.
Reactions to Radiocontrast Media
Many people have experienced reactions as a result of receiving IV dye for a radiologic study. Most of these reactions are mild, but some can be severe, even life-threatening. Learn more about why these reactions occur, common myths related to these reactions, and how these reactions can be prevented in the future.
Reactions to Local Anesthetics
Ever had a strange sensation after getting an injection of numbing medicine at the dentist? Do you get itchy rashes after using anti-itch creams, or mouth irritation after using oral gels for tooth and gum pain? You may have experienced an adverse reaction or allergy to local anesthetics. Learn more about how reactions to local anesthetics occur, what causes them, and how this condition is diagnosed and treated.
Glucosamine and Shellfish Allergy
Glucosamine is a common dietary supplement used in the treatment of arthritis. Because it is made from the shells of shrimp, crab and lobster, it is not recommended for people with shellfish allergy. Find out more about the possible link between glucosamine and shellfish allergy, and why it may be possible for people with shellfish allergy to take this supplement.
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome
Do you experience a variety of symptoms with exposure to odors, smells, pollutants and cigarette smoke? Do doctors tell you that they can't find anything wrong? If so, you may have the multiple chemical sensitivity syndrome. Learn about the controversy surrounding this disease, what the most common causes are, and various methods that are used to diagnose and treat this debilitating disease.
Are Mold Allergies Related to Drug Allergies?
Find out if mold allergy predisposes you to penicillin allergy.
Common Side Effects of Various Medications
Find out the most common side effects from various medications.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects, reduce the effectiveness of your medicine or possibly increase the action of a particular medicine. Our Drug Interactions Report can help you determine if the drugs you are taking have any adverse interactions with each other, with over the counter drugs or with your favorite herbals and vitamins.
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