Local : Reactions occur at the site of the injection on the arms (“where the shot was given). Redness & itching are frequent and are not a reason to hold or decrease the dose. Swelling or a lump that is irritating is a reason to hold or decrease the dose. This might occur in the office during the 20-minute waiting period or at home over the next 24 hours. Patients are asked to tell the doctor or nurse before the next injection about any swelling. We want to know how large it is…Is it the size of a dime, nickel quarter, half-dollar or larger? We can adjust the dose of future injections. An ice pack and an antihistamine, such as Chlortrimetron or Benadryl, can be used to reduce any swelling. Patients are asked to call the office during office hours to report these reactions.

Generalized (Systemic) : Reactions occur when there is any chest tightness, breathing difficulty, throat or lip swelling, hives, dizziness or an overall feeling of warmth in the face and body. This usually occurs in the first 10 minutes after the injection but can occur over the first hour. This is a strong reaction, not a minor feeling, which sometimes starts with a general feeling of itchiness. Other times it starts with a tickle or tingling in the throat.