Drug rashes are the body’s reaction to certain medications. The type of rash  that occurs depends on the medication that is causing it. It can range from mild to severe.

Rash caused by drugs can be grouped into the following categories.

• Rashes caused by an allergic reaction to the medication.
• Rahes produced  as an unwanted effect to  certain medication.
• Rashes due to hypersensitivity to sunlight caused by the medication.

Drug rashes may be severe and require hospitalization. Call your doctor right away.

What are the different types of rashes caused by drugs?

How is drug rash diagnosed ?

Diagnosing this condition can be complicated.  Even  a small amount of drugs can cause major reaction on the skin. The reaction can also occur a longtime after the chid has taken the medication. Your child’s doctor will have the child stop  the medication if it is not critical to sustain life, to see if the reaction will stop. Other medications may be substituted if necessary.

Treatment for drug rashes

Specific treatment will be determined by the doctor depending on the following :

• Your child’s age, health and medical history.
• Extent of condition
• Your child’s tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies.
• Expectations of the course of the conditions
• Your opinion or preference

The condition usually clears up when the child stops taking the medication that is causing the reaction. Other treatment may include :

• Corticosteroids
• Antihistamines
• Epinephrine for anaphylaxis

Allergic reactions can be fatal. If your child has symptoms such as wheezing,  difficulty breathing, tightness of chest or in the throat, fainting , nausea , vomiting or other serious symptoms, call the emergency number immediately.