Hives After Taking Codeine: Seeking Advice
Hello everyone, Recently, I completed a treatment regimen that included 25mg of dexketoprofen and a combination medication containing 15mg of codeine along with 500mg of paracetamol, taken three times daily for a total of five days. On the fourth day, I noticed the emergence of two hives, and by the fifth day, which was also the final day of my treatment, I developed an additional two. Unfortunately, more hives appeared on both the sixth and seventh days, leading to a total of eight prominent hives scattered across my body. Aside from this, I have not experienced any other adverse effects. I’m curious to know how long it typically takes for hives to cease appearing after the last dose has been taken. The initial hives have calmed down somewhat, but the newer ones remain persistent. They are quite bothersome and not aesthetically pleasing.
Answers (1)
3/31/2025, 9:50:34 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing hives, also known as urticaria, which can be triggered by an allergic reaction, possibly to codeine or other medications you've taken. It's understandable to be concerned, especially since they appear bothersome and are affecting your comfort.
Main Points:
- Hives can take time to resolve, sometimes appearing days after exposure to the allergen.
- Management focuses on soothing the skin and preventing further irritation.
Explanation: Hives occur when the body releases histamine in response to an allergen, leading to itchy, swollen welts on the skin. After stopping the offending medication, hives may continue to appear for several days. Typically, once the triggering substance is removed, hives can take anywhere from a few hours to several days to subside, but they may sometimes persist for weeks if the allergen remains active in your system or if there are other factors at play.
Next Steps:
- Avoid Triggers: Stop taking any medications you suspect might be causing the reaction, including codeine.
- Manage Symptoms:
- Consider taking an over-the-counter antihistamine (like cetirizine or loratadine) to help alleviate itching and reduce hive formation.
- Apply cool compresses to the affected areas to help soothe the skin.
- Observe Changes: Keep an eye on the hives for any changes. If they worsen or if you start experiencing additional symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a rapid heartbeat, seek medical attention immediately.
- Document Symptoms: If hives persist for more than a few days or if new symptoms arise, documenting your symptoms can help you discuss the situation further with a healthcare provider if necessary.
It's important to maintain a calm approach, as most cases of hives resolve without complications. If you find that irritation continues or worsens, it may be beneficial to seek further evaluation. Please let me know if you need more assistance or have other questions!
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