What are the symptoms of drug rash?

A drug eruption may begin on the trunk and spread, or appear in a pattern that reflects sun exposure. The skin can feel warm, tender, burning or itchy. Some reactions resemble [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/), while others cause hives or increased sensitivity to sunlight. The timing can vary: a reaction may follow a new medicine, a dose change, or repeated exposure to a medicine you have used before.

The appearance alone cannot identify the responsible medicine. A clinician will review every prescription, over-the-counter product and supplement, including when each was started and whether any doses were missed.

Contact the prescriber or a pharmacist promptly and provide a complete medicine list, photographs, and the date the rash began. Do not restart a suspected medicine or make a major change to an essential treatment without medical advice. A clinician may recommend an [Antihistamine Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-antihistamine-therapy/) for itch or [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) for inflammation when appropriate. Use gentle skin care and protect irritated skin from heat and sun.

Get emergency help for trouble breathing, facial or tongue swelling, faintness, blistering, skin peeling, painful skin, eye irritation, mouth sores, genital sores, or a [Rash With Fever](/symptoms/rash-with-fever/). These features can signal a severe reaction, including [Stevens-Johnson Syndrome](/conditions/stevens-johnson-syndrome/), and should not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask which medicine is most suspicious, whether it should be stopped now, what warning signs require emergency care, and which alternatives or symptom treatments are suitable for you.