Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2025

Basophil Activation Test for Investigation of IgE-Mediated Mechanisms in Drug Hypersensitivity
Published on: September 16, 2011
Do generic drugs cause hypersensitivity?
Florence Tetart1,2, Henri Gonde3, Charles Hervouët3
1CHU Rouen, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Erik Satie Center, 1 rue de Germont 76000 Rouen, France
Abstract:
Generic drugs may differ from brand-name drugs in nature and quantity of excipients. Hypersensitivity to generic drugs is a subject of growing importance given their key role in healthcare spending policies, however, a review of published data highlighted that relevant data is sparse. No scientific rationale has emerged for labelling patients allergic to all generic drugs, and hypersensitivity to generic drugs may rather be explored on a case-by-case basis. In the case of hypersensitivity without any change in medication, it is advisable to check for a switch from a brand-name to a generic drug, and if hypersensitivity to a generic drug is suspected, its composition must be checked.
Related Concept Videos
Allergic Drug Reactions
Hypersensitivities
Types of Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity reactions are categorized into four types: Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, and Type 4. Each type has a distinct mechanism...
Desensitization and Tachyphylaxis
Dose-Response Relationship: Selectivity and Specificity
Upper Respiratory Drugs: First and Second-Generation Antihistamines
Histamine binds to specific receptor sites, known as H1 receptors, on tissue cells, triggering inflammation and swelling. Antihistamines combat these effects by competing with histamine for these receptor sites. By...
Combined Effects of Drugs: Synergism
Such synergistic combinations...

