Title: Sulfa allergies: Overview and what to avoid
Headings: What to know about sulfa allergies
What to know about sulfa allergies
Symptoms
Medications that contain sulfa
Medications to avoid
Sulfa vs. sulfite allergy
Complications
Anaphylaxis
Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Treatment
Outlook

Content: Symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome include: flu-like symptoms
painful red blisters around the mouth, throat, eyes, or genitals
severe red or purple skin rash
sloughing or shedding of skin
fatigue
diarrhea
nausea and vomiting
fever
Treatment
Treatment for a sulfa allergy depends on what symptoms a person experiences. For hives, a rash, or itching, a doctor may prescribe antihistamines or corticosteroids. If a person experiences any respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing, they may need a drug called a bronchodilator. This helps to widen the air passages between the lungs. It is vital to treat the symptoms of anaphylaxis or Stevens-Johnson syndrome as medical emergencies when they occur. An anaphylactic reaction usually requires administration of epinephrine. People with Stevens-Johnson syndrome usually need to spend time in an intensive care unit for treatment that includes: corticosteroids to help control inflammation
antibiotics to help prevent or control skin infections
intravenous (IV) immunoglobulins to stop the disease progressing further
An individual should stop using the drug immediately and seek urgent advice from their doctor if they have an allergic reaction to sulfa medications. Doctors, dentists, and pharmacist should be aware of an individual’s drug allergies to ensure they prescribe the correct medications.