Are my hives being caused by using Oxycodone prescribed after my Breast Augmentation?

Question

I have chronic hives as a result of SLE Lupus. I had my BR surgery two weeks ago and have had a terrible hives flare up. I have asked my surgeon wether it is the Oxycodone use or the surgery that caused the flare up and he was not sure. I am still taking half a tablet at night for pain so I can sleep. I also take benadryl, zyrtec, allegra, and hydroxyzine. Have any of you seen this before? Also, is it okay to begin a course of Prednisone since I am two weeks post op?

David Azouz, MD, FACS, FRCS(C) · Answer

Opioids are known to cause dizziness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, respiratory depression, and itching in some patients.  After surgery it is often very hard to determine what may be the cause of hives, especially in a patient who gets hives chronically.  Therefore, it is important for a patient to consult with their physician to stop possible offending agents.  Usually as the pain improves after surgery, a patient will wean off opioid medications.

Are my hives being caused by using Oxycodone prescribed after my Breast Augmentation?

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