Drug Reactions: Why Are My Palms Turning Purple?

Drug allergy?

Hello Dr.
Lee: I have been diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse and mild regurgitation of both the mitral and tricuspid valves.
I have been prescribed the following medications: *Tenormin 50 mg, once daily, half a tablet each time; *Relifex 500 mg, twice daily, one tablet each time; *Deanxit, once daily, one tablet each time.
Since my symptoms have improved, I have not taken Tenormin and only take one tablet of Relifex and Deanxit after lunch each day.
I have noticed that about three hours after taking these medications, the palms of my hands turn a purplish-black color, which lasts for about seven hours before returning to normal.
I have checked the information on these two medications and found no mention of palm discoloration.
Additionally, I have no history of drug allergies.
Could you please explain the reason for this?

doris, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/02/12

Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine

I apologize for the late response! How long after starting these medications did you experience the side effects? Generally, these medications are commonly used and such side effects are rarely reported.
I recommend monitoring the situation.
If the side effects persist and are concerning to you, you may consider discontinuing the medication.

Reply Date: 2001/02/12

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding the unusual reaction you're experiencing with your palms turning purple after taking Relifex and Deanxit. It's important to understand that while medications can have a wide range of side effects, not all reactions are well-documented, and individual responses can vary significantly.

First, let's break down the medications you mentioned:
1. Tenormin (Atenolol): This is a beta-blocker commonly used to manage hypertension and certain heart conditions. While it can cause side effects like fatigue, dizziness, and cold extremities, it is less likely to be the cause of your symptoms since you mentioned you haven't been taking it regularly.

2. Relifex (Nimesulide): This is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain relief and inflammation. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues, dizziness, and skin reactions, but purple discoloration of the palms is not a typical side effect.

3. Deanxit (Flupentixol and Melitracen): This medication is used for anxiety and depression. Side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, and weight gain, but again, discoloration of the skin is not commonly reported.

The purple discoloration of your palms could be attributed to several factors:
- Circulatory Issues: The change in color may indicate a temporary reduction in blood flow to your hands, possibly due to vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) or other circulatory responses. This can happen with certain medications, especially those affecting the cardiovascular system.

- Allergic Reaction: While you mentioned you have no history of drug allergies, it is still possible to develop a sensitivity to a medication after starting it. An allergic reaction can manifest in various ways, including skin changes.

- Vascular Response: Some individuals may experience changes in skin color due to the body's response to medication, which can affect blood vessels and circulation. This could be a benign reaction, but it warrants further investigation.

- Other Factors: Consider other factors that might contribute to this reaction, such as environmental conditions (cold weather), stress, or even positioning of your hands during or after taking the medication.

Given that the discoloration lasts for several hours and resolves on its own, it is essential to monitor the situation closely. However, since this reaction is not typical and could indicate an underlying issue, I strongly recommend discussing this with your healthcare provider. They may want to evaluate your symptoms further, possibly adjusting your medication regimen or conducting additional tests to rule out any serious conditions.

In the meantime, keep a record of when the discoloration occurs, how long it lasts, and any other symptoms you may experience. This information will be valuable for your doctor in determining the cause of your symptoms.

In summary, while your medications may not typically cause purple palms, individual reactions can vary. It's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure your safety and well-being. They can provide personalized advice and determine the best course of action based on your specific situation. Take care!

Similar Q&A

Understanding Cold Hands and Feet: Causes and Solutions

I would like to ask, whenever the weather gets cold, my hands and feet become cold, and sometimes they even turn purple. I would like to know the reason for this and how to improve the situation. Thank you.

Dr. Huang Jianling reply Family Medicine
Hello Lin: Experiencing cold hands and feet that turn purple may be caused by Raynaud’s phenomenon. This occurs when the blood vessels in the extremities constrict in response to cold weather or increased stress, leading to numbness, tingling, or pain in the fingers, toes, and ea...

Skin Reactions to Acetaminophen: Redness, Darkening, and Itching Explained

Hello Doctor, I have noticed that whenever I take medications containing acetaminophen, which are used for pain relief and fever reduction, certain areas of my body start to become red, dark, and itchy. The area around my lips also becomes dark and swollen, and I experience warmt...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
Fixed drug eruption requires avoiding the re-administration of the same medication component.

Understanding Skin Issues: Are Your Drug Use and Skin Problems Related?

Hello Doctor: I have many closed soft lumps on both sides of my thighs (immature), which gradually enlarge over time and then start to ooze pus and blood (dark purple). This issue has persisted for a long time. I have previously used MDMA and ketamine, and I did not experience th...

Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
This appears to be a case of deep folliculitis, which requires a prolonged treatment duration. Special antibiotics may be used for treatment, or oral retinoids can be prescribed. Wishing you well.

Understanding and Treating Persistent Purple Spots on Your Legs

I remember when I was 15 years old, I noticed a large area of petechiae on the dorsum of my foot. Now that I am 30, it has become increasingly severe, extending to my calves, and sometimes clusters of petechiae appear on the inner thighs as well. The back of my hands is also affe...

Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: In response to your question, after walking for less than ten minutes, the dorsum of my foot is almost entirely covered, and it doesn't typically present with petechiae so quickly; rather, it resembles a phenomenon of vasodilation. Vasodilation is specific to individu...