Learning Objective:
Understand the common sulfa-containing drugs, recognize potential adverse reactions, and identify patients at risk for sulfonamide hypersensitivity.
Sulfa Drugs:
- Sulfonamide antibiotics
- Sulfasalazine
- Probenecid
- Furosemide
- Acetazolamide
- Celecoxib
- Thiazides
- Sulfonylureas
Key Adverse Effects in Sulfa-Allergic Patients:
- Fever
- Urinary tract infection–like symptoms
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome
- Hemolytic anemia
- Thrombocytopenia
- Agranulocytosis
- Acute interstitial nephritis
- Urticaria (hives)
- Photosensitivity
High-Yield Tip (Step 1):
- Always screen for sulfa allergies before prescribing sulfonamide-containing drugs.
- Remember: “Scary Sulfa Pharm FACTS” for rapid recall.
