Drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHR) are a common public health problem. Recent studies have confirmed that the frequency of drug allergy is overestimated by both patients and physicians.
The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and characteristics of DHR in university students. Data about the epidemiology of DHR in outpatient populations is relatively scarce. This study is designed to determine the prevalence of self- reported drug hypersensitivity and related factors among young adults. METHODS
A structured questionnaire was administered to the university students. RESULTS
A total of 1085 students (mean age:21.16+1.90 years, F/M:631/454) from all grades responded to the survey. The mean prevalence of self-reported drug hypersensitivity was 4.6% (49/1085). The most frequently involved drugs were antibiotics 28 (68.3%), followed by analgesisc (26.8%). The most common allergic reactions were rash 53.2%, and cardiovascular reactions 12.8%, respiratory reactions 4.3%, aforementioned two systems involvement were 22.3%, anaphylaxis 7.4%. Personal history of allergic diseases 11%, family history of drug hypersensitivity 22.4%. There was no differences in the prevalence of drug allergy in female patients compared with male patients. The mean age of first drug allergy reaction year was 13±7.2. Five hundred fifty five (57.4%) students had antibiotics and 641(65.7%) students had analgesics in case of need.
CONCLUSIONS
The mean prevalence of self-reported drug hypersensitivity was 4.6% in this study. Antibiotics and analgesics are the two drug families most frequently suspected. Among the self-reported drug hypersensitivity reactions, the most common manifestations are cutaneous symptoms. Drug provocation tests need to be included in diagnostic protocols in order to evaluate suspected DHR. This study showed that self-reported hypersensitivity reactions to drugs is highly prevalent and the education of both patients and physicians on the management of drug hypersensitivity seems to be necessary.