Drug Allergies
90% of suspected drug allergies aren't true allergies. Our comprehensive testing identifies safe alternatives and enables desensitization when needed, so you never have to avoid essential medications.
Understanding Drug Reactions
Not all reactions are allergies. Proper testing determines your risk level.
Side Effects
Nausea, headache, drowsiness
70% of reactionsIntolerance
GI upset, predictable effects
20% of reactionsTrue Allergy
Hives, anaphylaxis, immune-mediated
10% of reactionsDrug Classes We Test
Antibiotics
Most common drug allergy concern
Penicillins and cephalosporins account for most antibiotic allergies. We test all classes to find safe options.
Pain Medications
NSAIDs and opioid reactions
Reactions to pain medications can limit treatment options. We identify safe alternatives for pain management.
Anesthetics
Local and general anesthesia
Pre-surgical testing ensures safe anesthesia options. Critical for patients with previous reactions.
Contrast Media
CT and MRI contrast agents
Reactions to contrast can prevent important imaging. We provide premedication protocols and alternatives.
Biologics
Monoclonal antibodies
Reactions to biologics can interrupt treatment. Desensitization allows continued therapy.
Chemotherapy
Cancer treatment drugs
When cancer treatment causes reactions, rapid desensitization enables life-saving therapy to continue.
Our Testing Process
Safe, systematic approach to confirm or rule out drug allergies
Medical History Review
Detailed assessment of your reaction history, timing, symptoms, and current medications.
Skin Testing
Skin prick and intradermal tests with drug extracts. Results in 15-20 minutes.
Blood Testing
Specific IgE testing for certain drugs when skin testing isn't available.
Drug Challenge
Supervised administration of increasing doses to confirm tolerance. Gold standard test.
Results & Plan
Clear documentation of safe drugs, alternatives, and emergency protocols.
Drug Challenge Protocol
Supervised testing in a safe, controlled environment
Pre-Challenge
Baseline vitals, IV access, emergency medications ready
Initial Dose
1/100 of therapeutic dose, observe 30 minutes
Escalation
Gradual dose increases: 1/10, then 1/3 of full dose
Full Dose
Complete therapeutic dose, monitor 1-2 hours
Clearance
Drug allergy removed from records, safe list provided
Drug Desensitization
When you need a medication you're allergic to
Gradual Dose Progression
Over 4-12 hours, we gradually increase doses to induce temporary tolerance
Rapid Desensitization
For urgent needs like chemotherapy or surgery. Completed in hours, requires ongoing medication.
- 4-12 hour protocol
- ICU or monitored setting
- Temporary tolerance
Standard Desensitization
For antibiotics and other essential medications. Takes days to weeks, longer-lasting tolerance.
- 5-7 day protocol
- Outpatient possible
- More durable tolerance
Aspirin Desensitization
For patients with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) or cardiac needs.
- 2-3 day protocol
- Improves asthma/sinusitis
- Daily maintenance required
Safe Alternatives
When you can't take a medication, we find what you can
Common Drug Alternatives
If You're Allergic To:
Safe Alternatives Include:
Specialized Care For
🤰 Pregnant Women
Safe testing and treatment options during pregnancy. Limited antibiotic choices make accurate testing crucial.
- Modified testing protocols
- Safe alternative antibiotics
- Coordination with OB/GYN
👶 Children
Pediatric protocols for accurate testing. Most children with reported allergies can safely take the medication.
- Age-appropriate testing
- Family education
- School documentation
🏥 Surgical Patients
Pre-operative testing ensures safe anesthesia and antibiotics. Prevents surgery delays and complications.
- Anesthesia allergy testing
- Antibiotic prophylaxis
- Emergency protocols
🧬 Multiple Drug Allergies
Complex cases requiring systematic evaluation. We identify patterns and find safe treatment options.
- Cross-reactivity assessment
- Comprehensive testing
- Personalized drug list
Your Safety Is Our Priority
Pre-Testing Safety
- ✓ Complete medical history review
- ✓ Risk stratification
- ✓ Medication washout if needed
- ✓ Informed consent
During Testing
- ✓ Continuous monitoring
- ✓ IV access established
- ✓ Emergency medications ready
- ✓ Physician present
Emergency Preparedness
- ✓ Crash cart available
- ✓ Epinephrine on hand
- ✓ Hospital transfer plan
- ✓ Trained staff
Post-Testing Care
- ✓ Extended observation
- ✓ Clear documentation
- ✓ 24-hour follow-up
- ✓ Emergency contact provided
Emergency Preparedness Kit
Every drug allergy patient should have:
EpiPen
For severe reactions
Antihistamines
Benadryl, Zyrtec
Allergy List
Updated documentation
Medical Alert
Bracelet or card
Emergency Contacts
Doctor & pharmacy
Action Plan
Step-by-step guide
Life-Changing Results
I avoided penicillin for 40 years based on a childhood rash. Testing showed I wasn't allergic! Now I can take the most effective antibiotics.
My chemotherapy was causing severe reactions. Desensitization allowed me to continue treatment without interruption. It saved my life.
Surgery was postponed twice due to anesthesia concerns. Testing identified safe options, and my hip replacement went perfectly.
Common Questions
Is drug allergy testing safe?
Yes. Testing is done in a controlled medical setting with emergency equipment and trained staff. We start with the smallest doses and increase gradually while monitoring closely.
How long does testing take?
Skin testing takes 30-60 minutes. Drug challenges take 3-4 hours. Complete evaluation including history and testing is usually done in one visit.
Can I be tested for multiple drugs?
Yes, but we typically test one drug class per visit for safety. We prioritize based on your medical needs and upcoming procedures.
What if I had anaphylaxis?
Previous anaphylaxis requires special precautions but doesn't rule out testing. We may start with blood tests and use modified protocols if skin testing is appropriate.
Will insurance cover testing?
Most insurance plans cover drug allergy testing when medically necessary. We provide documentation for pre-authorization when required.
Can allergies develop later in life?
Yes, drug allergies can develop at any age, even to medications you've taken before. They can also resolve over time, which is why retesting is valuable.
Stop Avoiding Medications You May Not Be Allergic To
95% of patients with penicillin allergy labels can safely take penicillin. Find out if you're one of them.
Same-day results available • Insurance accepted • No referral needed