Characterization of Patients with Ibuprofen Hypersensitivity

Area of Science:

• Allergy and Immunology
• Pharmacology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Ibuprofen is a widely used over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
• Drug-induced hypersensitivity reactions are known for ibuprofen, but specific data on ibuprofen hypersensitivity is limited.
• Understanding ibuprofen allergy is crucial due to its common use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the demographics of patients experiencing ibuprofen hypersensitivity.
• To describe the clinical presentation and course of ibuprofen allergy.
• To assess the severity and cross-reactivity patterns in ibuprofen hypersensitivity.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of patients diagnosed with ibuprofen allergy (2008-2016).
• Inclusion of patients from an allergy clinic at a tertiary care academic institution.
• Standardized grading system used to assess reaction severity.

Main Results:

• 41 patients included; 27 were female. Mean age at first reaction: 33 years.
• Rapid symptom onset (median 30 minutes) with predominantly cutaneous manifestations (urticaria, angioedema in 90%).
• Reactions were mild (46%) or moderate (51%), with one severe anaphylaxis case; cross-reactivity to other NSAIDs/acetaminophen observed.

Conclusions:

• Ibuprofen hypersensitivity predominantly affects females, presenting with rapid-onset cutaneous symptoms.
• Reactions range from mild to moderate, but severe anaphylaxis is a risk.
• Cross-reactivity with other NSAIDs and acetaminophen is a significant consideration.