What Causes Rashes On The Arms While On SMZ-TMP DS?

Posted on Mon, 20 Jun 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 20 Jun 2016 Answered on

Tue, 12 Jul 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I had an abcess and was prescribed a 10 day dose of 2 X a day of SULFAMETHOXAZOLE-TMP DS TABLET. I have taken all but the last dose. The access is cleared I think. When I woke this morning I had a rash on my inner arms but I thought they may have been mosquito bites. However as the day progressed the rash became more and now is on my entire body, back, neck, torso, thighs and arms. The rash is red and many bumps are large and irregular. The warning said if rash or blisters appear seek medical attention. Can I wait until morning to call my Dr or should I go to emergency now. It is almost 2:00 am here in Oklahoma. I am 78 years old.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Take an antihistamine tablet

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for the query.
Probably you have developed drug allergy.
Take an antihistamine tablet and apply a mild steroid cream like cortisone.
Yes you can wait till morning.
Let me know if you have any other doubts.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng