Medicines That May Cause Swelling

Swelling can be a sign that you are having an allergic reaction to a medicine. This can happen with almost any medicine.

Many prescription and nonprescription medicines also may cause swelling as a side effect. A few examples are:

• Corticosteroids.
• Hormones, such as birth control pills and hormone therapy used to treat menopause symptoms.
• Some blood pressure medicines.

Call the doctor who prescribed the medicine to determine whether you should stop taking it or take a different one. An appointment may not be necessary. If you are taking a nonprescription medicine, stop taking it. Call your doctor if you feel you need to continue taking it.