What to Avoid for a Sulfa Allergy
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Types
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Sulfanomides are the group of drugs that contain sulfa, which are dispensed in several forms including pills, ointments, drops and creams.
Allergic Reactions
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Reactions to sulfa drugs can range from simple rashes, to the life-threatening Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Kidney and liver damage is possible, as are adverse lung and blood reactions.
Antibiotics
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Septra and Bactrim are two brand names for sulfa antibiotics. Sulfamethoxazole or Erythromycin-sulfisoxazole may be on the medication label. Not all sulfa drugs have the prefix "sul" or "sulfa."
Related Drugs
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Some drugs are closely related to sulfa drugs and may cause a sulfa allergic reaction. These can include drugs used to treat Crohn's disease, dermatitis and pneumonia, diabetes, inflammation and migraines. Some diuretics contain compounds closely related to sulfonamides.
Precautions
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People who have HIV/AIDS may be more prone to allergic reactions from sulfa drugs. If you have a sulfa allergy and are not certain about a medication, check with your doctor or pharmacist. Sulfa drugs may also interact with other medications.
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