Acetaminophen (paracetamol)-induced anaphylactic shock

South Med J. 2002 Jul;95(7):759-60.

Abstract

Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is a widely prescribed analgesic-antipyretic drug. Adverse allergic reactions to this drug are rare. We report a case of anaphylactic shock due to acetaminophen. Results of skin prick tests and intradermal tests were negative. Oral rechallenge resulted in generalized urticaria associated with an increased plasma level of histamine. Acetaminophen should be added to the list of causes of anaphylaxis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acetaminophen / adverse effects*
  • Adult
  • Analgesics, Non-Narcotic / adverse effects*
  • Anaphylaxis / chemically induced*
  • Anaphylaxis / diagnosis
  • Anaphylaxis / drug therapy
  • Epinephrine / administration & dosage
  • Female
  • Histamine / blood
  • Humans
  • Injections, Subcutaneous
  • Urticaria / chemically induced
  • Urticaria / drug therapy

Substances

  • Analgesics, Non-Narcotic
  • Acetaminophen
  • Histamine
  • Epinephrine