Penicillin allergy testing is once again available at Allergy & Asthma Care. Penicillin allergy is a major problem, with patients unable to take a large number of antibiotics related to penicillin. As a result, patients often have to take stronger, broader spectrum antibiotics, with more potential adverse effects. Additionally, the use of the broader spectrum antibiotics leads to increasing resistance, meaning that when they are needed for future infections, they may not work. Resistance to antibiotics in our communities is a growing problem, so the ability to use penicillin antibiotics remains important.
Fortunately, most patients with a history of possible reactions to penicillin can safely take them again. Approximately 85% of penicillin allergic patients will lose the allergy after ten or more years. Additionally, many rashes that develop while taking antibiotics are not due to an allergic reaction, but it is often difficult to know for sure. Penicillin testing materials have been unavailable for about 5 years, since the sole company who made them opted to discontinue production. However, a company called Allerquest has brought penicillin testing materials back to the allergy community.
Allergy & Asthma Care of Fairfield County is pleased to be able to offer penicillin allergy testing to our patients. Please call (203) 259-7070 to schedule an appointment.
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