Allergic to SSRI's? Trying to find information.

I had a severe allergic reaction--we believe--to 2 different antidepressants last year. Cymbalta, Celexa, and Zoloft. For part of the time I was also on zantac or prilosec--those I am definitely allergic to with body rash and possible breathing problems--took antihistamines immediately when reaction happened.

The reaction to the AD's was much more severe and happened even when not taking the zantac or prilosec. I had facial, tongue, and leg/hand edema, bleeding blisters in my throat and other mucosal tissues. My body was covered with a red rash that itched horrifically. A few weeks after I was off all AD's my skin peeled a bit like a mild sunburn.

I have found nothing to date about SSRI allergies, SNRI too, and would appreciate any links to information anyone might have or know about.

Thank you so very much.
Lifesaver54

sorry don't have anything useful to add, but some people can be allergic not to the active ingredient in a drug but to some of the binding agents used to bind the drug - and occasionally a different brand can help.

zantac is a histamine receptor antagonist and can sometimes be used to help allergies as well although only very mildly - maybe that's why the reaction was worse off the zantac?

There are other cases in the literature. I googled SSRI rash and got some hits. Some people get a rash to several different SSRIs, indicating cross-reactivity. Could be an allergic response or chemical sensitivity. Trying ADs of a different class was recommended. Here is one reference:

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor-Induced Rash: Case Report

Hope you can find an alternative med that works for you.

You know my body couldn't stand Celexa so I hear ya on that one, but some of the side effects you describe are pretty extreme (or at least it sounds that way to me), not everyones body takes well to SSRI's.