Monash Health Pharmacy: Penicillin allergy testing
Did you know that around 90% of people who believe they are allergic to penicillin aren’t?
Allergies to penicillin antibiotics are one of the most commonly reported allergies, with false ‘labels’ potentially leading to poor health outcomes and extended hospital stays.
Monash Health’s Pharmacy team has been working closely with our Allergy and Immunology teams across our sites on a program that identifies and assesses patients reporting a low-risk penicillin allergy.
“Many people may incorrectly believe they have a penicillin allergy if another family member has one, or if they were inaccurately diagnosed in childhood. However, penicillin allergies are not inherited, and studies have also shown that they can often disappear over time,” said Anny Nguyen, Allergy and Adverse Reactions Pharmacist.
The ‘Low-Risk Penicillin Allergy De-Labelling Service’ conducts monitored allergy testing and challenges on site, to safely identify patients in our care who can use penicillin if needed.
While alternative treatments may be available, the penicillin antibiotic is often the preferred treatment when an allergy is not present.
“Alternative antibiotics are often broader spectrum with more side effects and medication interactions,” said Anny.
“Over time, some bacteria can become resistant to broad spectrum antibiotics, which may limit antibiotic options in the future.”
De-labelling false penicillin allergies for patients ensures they can receive treatment with the most effective and appropriate therapies.
