Can Paracetamol allergy cause itchy rashes on face?

Question

Hello doctor,

A 6-year-old gets itchy rashes on her face and stomach after taking Paracetamol syrup, may be a probable allergy to Paracetamol. We have been giving her Calpol for the past three years. And it is showing these symptoms now.

1. How to make sure that this is Paracetamol allergy or not? Is there any test?

2. Why were there no adverse symptoms earlier when I gave her Calpol for the past three years?

3. Do children outgrow these allergies after a few years or months? Can she be able to take Paracetamol later in her life?

4. Is it true that any future exposure to Paracetamol will delay the ability to outgrow the allergy? I mean if she is exposed to Paracetamol will she take more time to become normal?

5. I tried Ibugesic instead, and it was tolerated well. Should we give her Ibuprofen instead of Paracetamol during fever?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

For allergy, you can give Cetirizine syrup. Paracetamol is one of the safest drugs. It is very rare that Paracetamol causes allergy. And you are also giving Paracetamol for the last three years, and there was no allergy. Generally, allergies increase by repeated exposures. So I think it may be due to some food allergy or infection. At present do not give Paracetamol if you feel that it is causing allergy, continue with Ibuprofen. If she is developing so much rash, itching or breathing problem then go to a pediatrician as soon as possible.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, you can give Paracetamol later on.