Acne Rosacea: [rosacea] Allergic Reaction To MetroLotion (metronidazole) and Rosac?

Sunday, November 26, 2006

[rosacea] Allergic Reaction To MetroLotion (metronidazole) and Rosac?

I read the new book The Skin Type Solution, saw my dermatologist and
picked up a prescription for Rosac (Combination Sodium Sulfacetamide
10% and Sulfur 5% Cream). I have used it a few times and seemed to
notice a tightening of my throat, and a general sense of "unease" like
I might be having an allergic reaction to it. I have had an severe
allergic reaction to oral sulfa antibiotics in the past (over 10 years
ago).

I decided not to use it for a few days just in case it might be a
problem. I have some older (expired) MetroLotion that the
dermatologist prescribed for me a long time ago. I researched that
carefully and found very little in the way of possible side effects,
generally local. So I used it moderately for the last few days. Last
night at bedtime, I washed carefully and applied about 1/2 tsp of it
on my face. I was reading in bed and noticed a tightening of my throat
and a kind of allergic pain in my stomach and esophagus. I worried I
might be having an allergic reaction to the MetroLotion. I got up and
took a benadryl, which I do take occasionally without trouble. Went to
sleep and woke up in a panic about an hour later feeling very
uncomfortable. My symptoms in general are a general body puffiness and
tightness,(esp hands and face) and a feeling of "uneasiness." I also
developed some hives along the side of my neck (which I do have
infrequently in general). I have been up for hours and still feel very
uncomfortable although I can finally get my ring off my finger.

Has anyone experienced symptoms like this from one of the meds I have
listed, or any rosacea meds in general? I really want to give one of
these a try but I don't want to feel like this all the time.
Thanks for any advice,
Pat