Skin Reactions: Managing Antihistamine Use After Thyroid Medication - Dermatology

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Medication Consultation


I would like to ask a professional physician.
I previously experienced itching as a side effect from taking medication for hyperthyroidism (carbimazole), so I have been taking antihistamines (Doxepin) for over two years.
Recently, I have been gradually reducing the dosage, from taking one pill a day to taking it five days a week and not taking it for two days.
My skin no longer itches or breaks out! What could be the reason for this? (I am still taking carbimazole once a day.)

Ms. Zeng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/02

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology


Doxepin is primarily a long-acting medication, and long-term use of antihistamines may also lead to a decrease in histamine levels in the blood.

Reply Date: 2020/10/02

More Info


The skin reactions you are experiencing, particularly after taking medications like acetaminophen and carbimazole (carbizo), can be quite complex and may involve multiple factors, including drug allergies, skin sensitivities, and underlying conditions.
Firstly, it is important to understand that acetaminophen can cause skin reactions in some individuals, although this is relatively rare. The symptoms you described—redness, itching, and darkening of the skin in specific areas—could indicate a fixed drug eruption or an allergic reaction. Fixed drug eruptions are characterized by well-defined, round lesions that recur at the same site upon re-exposure to the offending drug. The areas you mentioned, such as the glans penis, perineum, and certain fingers, suggest that you may have localized hypersensitivity to acetaminophen.
In your case, the best course of action is to avoid any medications containing acetaminophen and consult a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend allergy testing to confirm the specific triggers for your skin reactions. Treatment may include topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching, as well as emollients to help restore the skin barrier.

Regarding your use of antihistamines like "Chlorpheniramine" (referred to as 驅異樂), it seems that your skin condition has improved as you have gradually reduced the dosage. This could be due to several reasons. First, prolonged use of antihistamines can sometimes lead to a rebound effect, where the body becomes accustomed to the medication, and symptoms may improve once the body adjusts to lower doses. Additionally, the underlying cause of your itching may have resolved or become less pronounced over time, especially if it was related to the initial use of carbimazole.

Carbimazole, used for hyperthyroidism, can also cause skin reactions, including rashes and itching, as a side effect. If you are still taking carbimazole and have not experienced itching or rashes recently, it may indicate that your body is adapting to the medication, or that the hyperthyroid condition is better managed now, leading to fewer skin issues.

It is crucial to continue monitoring your skin's response as you taper off the antihistamines. If you notice any resurgence of symptoms, it would be wise to consult with your healthcare provider. They may suggest alternative treatments or further investigations to ensure that your skin health is maintained.

In summary, managing skin reactions related to medication requires careful observation and sometimes a multi-faceted approach, including avoiding known triggers, using appropriate topical treatments, and possibly adjusting systemic medications under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Always consult with a dermatologist or your primary care physician for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

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