Emergency Guide: Drug Reactions

Know the warning signs. Know when to call for help immediately.

Call 911 IMMEDIATELY if you have:

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
Chest pain or tightening
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
Loss of consciousness
Seizures
Severe bleeding that won't stop
Signs of stroke: face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty
Severe chest pain (heart attack signs)
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide after starting new medication

Call Your Doctor or Pharmacist if:

Unusual bruising or bleeding
Severe nausea or vomiting
Severe skin rash or hives
Extreme dizziness or fainting
Muscle pain or weakness (especially with statins)
Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice — liver warning)
Dark urine or pale stools
Unusual weight changes
Vision or hearing changes
New symptoms after starting medication

Serotonin Syndrome — Know the Signs

Serotonin syndrome happens when two or more drugs increase serotonin too much. It can be life-threatening. Common cause: mixing antidepressants with pain meds.

Agitation or restlessness

High fever (above 104°F)

Rapid heart rate

Muscle twitching

Heavy sweating

Confusion or disorientation

If you notice these symptoms — call 911 immediately.

Poison Control

1-800-222-1222

US Poison Control Center — Available 24/7, 365 days. Call if someone accidentally took too much medication.

Check Your Medications Now