Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are unitended and unwanted reactions that occur during the clinical use of a drug. Some ADRs have acquired unique and memorable names based on their clinical presentation, making them easier to recall during exams as well as in clinical practice
Cheese Reaction
Seen in patients taking antidepressant like monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). When these patients consume tyramine-rich foods such as cheese, wine, or fermented products, tyramine escapes metabolism and stimulates sympathetic system resulting in hypertensive crisis.
Red Man Syndrome
Red Man Syndrome is associated with rapid intravenous infusion of vancomycin, an antibiotic that causes histamine release. Histamine being a potent vasodilator, results in flushing and redness of the face,neck, and upper trunk and hence the name Red Man!
Grey Baby Syndrome
Chloramphenicol, a broad spectrum antibiotic needs to be metabolized in the liver through conjugation with glucuronide prior to its excretion. In neonates and young infants, the enzymes responsible for this process are immature, resulting in drug toxicity.As a result the child would develop vomiting, hypotension, cyanosis and characteristic grey discoloration of the skin.
Floppy Iris Syndrome
Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome is seen in patients taking tamsulosin, an α₁-blocker used in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). When a patient taking tamsulosin undergoes cataract surgery, the iris becomes floppy and billows with intraocular fluid —posing surgical challenges.
Yellow Vision (Xanthopsia)
Digoxin is a drug commonly used in heart failure. Patients report yellow halos around objects, as an early warning sign of digoxin toxicity.
Purple Glove Syndrome
This rare but serious ADR is linked to intravenous phenytoin, an antiepileptic drug.
Patient will develop pain, swelling, and purplish discoloration of the limb due to vascular irritation and tissue injury at the injection site.
Any similar ADR names that you can think of? Comment below!
MBH/AB
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Hand-foot Syndrome