What are drug rashes?

Reactions to drugs are common and often produce a rash . The rash presents in many different ways and can involve the eyes, mouth and genitals.The skin may be red, itchy, sore, blistered, swollen or pigmented. Almost any medication can produce a rash so it is important to bring all your medication, including any herbal treatment, cold remedies or OTC medication to your appointment. This may help to identify a drug which should be stopped and avoided in the future.

How can drug rashes be treated?

The most important treatment is to stop the offending drug . Simple emollients and topical steroids can help to soothe the skin until the drug rash resolves. Antihistamines are not usually helpful for itching but they can make you drowsy and therefore help you to sleep.