Medications That Cause Angioedema and Treatment Options to Know
Angioedema is a serious and often unexpected swelling beneath the skin that can be triggered by various medications. While it can affect anyone, identifying the cause and knowing how to treat it can be life-saving.
This guide explains which medications are commonly linked to angioedema, how to recognize symptoms, and what treatment options are available.
What Is Angioedema?
Angioedema is the rapid swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, often around the eyes, lips, throat, and sometimes internal organs. It may occur with or without hives and can range from mild discomfort to a medical emergency if it affects breathing or swallowing. The condition is often allergic or drug-induced, but it can also be hereditary or idiopathic (no known cause).
Medications Commonly Associated with Angioedema
Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications are more likely to cause angioedema, especially in individuals with increased sensitivity or allergic tendencies. Here are the most frequently reported culprits:
- ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril, Enalapril)
- Used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. ACE inhibitors are among the most common drug-related causes of angioedema.
- Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs)
- Medications like Losartan and Valsartan can cause angioedema, though less frequently than ACE inhibitors.
- NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Naproxen)
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can cause allergic-type reactions, including angioedema, in sensitive individuals.
- Antibiotics (e.g., Penicillin, Sulfa drugs)
- Allergic reactions to antibiotics may result in hives and angioedema.
- Aspirin
- Similar to NSAIDs, aspirin can trigger swelling and allergic responses in some users.
- Oral Contraceptives
- Estrogen-containing birth control pills may worsen hereditary angioedema in those predisposed to it.
If you're taking any of these medications and experience swelling, especially in the face or throat, seek medical attention immediately.
Recognizing the Signs of Angioedema
It’s important to act quickly when symptoms of angioedema appear. Key signs include:
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, eyes, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Abdominal pain (in cases involving intestinal angioedema)
- Hives or rash (though not always present)
- A feeling of tightness or burning in the affected areas
In severe cases, angioedema can lead to anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that requires emergency treatment.
Treatment Options for Angioedema
Treatment for angioedema depends on the cause and severity of symptoms. Common approaches include:
- Immediate Discontinuation of the Offending Medication
- Stopping the triggering drug is essential to prevent recurrence.
- Antihistamines
- Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines may reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Corticosteroids
- Oral or injected steroids can help manage more severe cases and reduce swelling quickly.
- Epinephrine (Adrenaline)
- Used in emergency settings for life-threatening allergic reactions or anaphylaxis.
- C1 Inhibitor Therapy
- For hereditary angioedema, C1 inhibitors and other specialty drugs like Berinert, Firazyr, or Takhzyro may be prescribed.
- Allergy Testing and Specialist Referral
- Seeing an allergist or immunologist can help identify triggers and develop a long-term management plan.
Conclusion
Understanding which medications may cause angioedema—and how to treat it—is key to protecting your health. If you’re starting a new medication, especially an ACE inhibitor or NSAID, be aware of potential symptoms and act quickly if swelling occurs. With early recognition and the right treatment plan, most cases of drug-induced angioedema can be effectively managed or avoided altogether.