Hypersensitivity Reactions to Tartrazine (FD&C Yellow No. 5)

 

Synonym: FD&C Yellow No. 5

 

Where found:

(1) drugs

(2) foods such as butter or margarine

 

Clinical features:

(1) asthma or other allergic reaction

(2) often associated with aspirin hypersensitivity

(3) failure to react to the same formulation made without tartrazine

(4) evidence of hypersensitivity to tartrazine on allergy testing

 

Although a challenge dose of tartrazine can be given this is often unnecessary and can be risky for the patient.

 

The presence of tartrazine must be listed on the ingredient label so that consumers can identify its presence.