Title: Sulfa Allergy: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Headings: An Overview of Sulfa Allergy
An Overview of Sulfa Allergy
Symptoms
Common
Severe
When to Call 911
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Sulfonamides vs. Sulfates
Understanding Sulfite Allergy
A Word From Verywell

Content: Sulfa Allergy: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Allergies
Drug & Latex Allergies
An Overview of Sulfa Allergy
By
Daniel More, MD
Daniel More, MD, is a board-certified allergist and clinical immunologist with a background in internal medicine. Learn about our editorial process
Daniel More, MD
Medically reviewed by
Medically reviewed by Corinne Savides Happel, MD on February 14, 2020
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Corinne Savides Happel, MD, is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with a focus on allergic skin disorders, asthma, and other immune disorders. Learn about our Medical Review Board
Corinne Savides Happel, MD
Updated on February 14, 2020
Table of Contents
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Table of Contents
Symptoms
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Sulfa allergy is a term used to describe an adverse drug reaction to sulfonamides, a class of drugs that includes both antibiotics and non-antibiotics. 1 ﻿
Such a response to sulfa is not all that uncommon. Whether caused by a true allergy or drug intolerance, sulfa reactions affect up to 6% of all people (women more than men). 2 ﻿ The rate is similar to what is seen with reactions to other types of antibiotics, including penicillin. 3 ﻿
Illustration by Brianna Gilmartin, Verywell
Two of the more common sulfa drugs associated with sulfa allergy are: Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (marketed under the brand names Bactrim, Septra, and others)
Erythromycin-sulfafurazole (marketed under the brand names Eryzole, Pediazole, and others) 4 ﻿
Guidelines for Prescribing Antibiotics
Symptoms
The symptoms and severity of a sulfa allergy can vary from mild to life-threatening. Call your doctor if you develop symptoms of a sulfa allergy, however mild, and seek emergency care if symptoms are severe and rapidly progressing.