Skin reactions to medicine

Trunk of woman's body covered in hives, with close-up of hives

An allergic reaction to medicine can cause hives. They appear as raised, red, itchy bumps (wheals) of different shapes and sizes, with defined red margins and pale centers. Hives may appear and then disappear at random and seem to move from place to place on the skin.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff

Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.