Tag: Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

Sulfa Allergy: Safe Drugs, Drugs to Avoid, and How to Think About Cross-Reactivity

drugallergydetective.com
Infographic on sulfa allergies showing safe versus avoid drug lists, including furosemide, HCTZ, sulfonylureas, celecoxib, etoricoxib, and high-risk drugs like sulfamethoxazole, sulfadiazine, sulfasalazine, and dapsone.

Many patients search online for sulfa allergy safe drugs after experiencing severe reactions to antibiotics such as co-trimoxazole (trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole). When people hear the term “sulfa allergy,” confusion often follows. Some patients wonder if they must avoid every drug with “sulfa” in the name. The truth is: not all sulfa-containing medications are dangerous. The key is understanding the chemical structure—specifically whether the drug contains the N4 arylamine group. The Real Culprit: The N4 Arylamine Group The allergy risk in sulfonamide antibiotics comes from a specific chemical feature known as the N4…

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Reevaluating the Approach to Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs): Is Drug Rechallenge Always Off the Table?

drugallergydetective.com

Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs), such as acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), are among the most feared drug-related complications. These conditions can result in devastating outcomes, and the conventional approach to managing SCARs emphasizes strict avoidance of the suspected culprit drug to prevent potentially fatal recurrences. But is avoidance always the only path forward? Could there be room for a more nuanced strategy in specific cases? Not All SCARs Are Created Equal SCARs represent a spectrum of disorders,…

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