Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAID encompasses a wide variety of drugs that have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic (fever reduction) effects. A common medicine falling under this drug category is Aspirin.

NSAID sensitivity

Like all drugs, NSAIDs also cause allergic reactions. In fact, this pharmacologic class is frequently involved in hypersensitivity reactions. That is why, an important consideration before any drug administration is to assess for hypersensitivity to the drug or drug components. The most common reactions associated with post-NSAID ingestion are urticaria and angioedema. People who have preexisting conditions like asthma and chronic urticaria may also have greater chances of worsening skin reactions and asthma symptoms resulting to a decreased breathing capacity. Because of this, the signs of aspirin allergy are sometimes confused with anaphylaxis, although the latter may also rarely present with aspirin allergy.

What your Doctor can do for you

The mechanism of NSAID sensitivity is presumed to be mainly pharmacologic rather than IgE mediated. Therefore, skin testing and other allergy diagnostic testing does no help. Instead, an oral challenge of the drug may be performed to test for sensitivity.

Although allergies are usually specific to one NSAID, there are also cases of cross-reactivity to other NSAIDs. Hence, the patient will be advised to avoid all forms of NSAIDs and wear a Medic Alert bracelet. And because they are not able to tolerate NSAID therapy, they are prescribed with alternative medications such as acetaminophen. Desensitization therapy may be performed in cases that a person is required to receive NSAIDs.

What you can do

When it comes to drug allergy, the only way that a person can help himself is to avoid the culprit. Know what drugs you are allergic to. You should have a list of these drugs in order not to forget the names. And it’s a rule of thumb to always wear a Medic Alert bracelet to warn medical professionals engaging in your care with the allergies that you have and avoid accidental administration of these allergens.