DEAR DR. GOTT: The woman you wrote about who is getting hives and knows that they were previously caused by aspirin might now be taking ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Midol) which is causing the allergic reaction.

I had a similar problem 30 years ago (and for some strange reason it seemed to mostly happen during the night just like this woman). I went to an allergist and was told that these two drugs are cross-reactive, meaning they have very similar actions and side effects even though they have different chemical compositions. Now I am left with only being able to take acetaminophen (Tylenol) which is not nearly as effective and which has dangerous side effects such as liver toxicity that can result in death! Needless to say, I usually just suffer with the aches and pains and look for natural remedies and exercise.
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