Anaphylactic shock reaction to dibutyl-phthalate-containing capsules

We report on a patient who was taking a Gelomyrtol forte capsule, a mucosec retolytic herbal product, to treat an infection of the upper respiratory tr act. Itching, urticaria and respiratory distress occurred after 20 min whic h culminated in anaphylactic shock. Prick tests were carried out with the i ndividual substances from Gelomyrtol forte capsules. Dibutyl phthalate prod uced a strong positive result. It is used as a plasticizer in films coverin g tablets, dragees and capsules. As a triggering agent of anaphylactic reac tions to drugs, the auxiliary materials, e.g. dibutyl phthalate, should als o be taken into consideration.