Penicillin Allergy Treatment
Penicillin allergy testing can determine whether a reported antibiotic allergy is still present.
- Evaluation of past reactions such as rash, hives, swelling, or breathing difficulty.
- Skin testing and supervised challenge when appropriate.
- Guidance on safe antibiotic options.
- Same-day or next-day appointments often available.
Important Medical Notice
The information provided below and throughout this website is presented for general educational purposes only and does NOT constitute professional medical advice. This information is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice and NO material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a health or a medical condition. Never disregard the advice of a medical professional or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
The Benefits of Penicillin Allergy Treatment
When treating a patient with a drug allergy, it is important that the healthcare professional obtains an accurate and detailed medical history and reviews any previous medical records regarding allergies. Allergy testing may be recommended if the cause of the allergic reaction is unclear.
This testing can identify which medication allergies an individual has, as well as any common penicillins they may be allergic to, to determine an alternative antibiotic if required. In addition, it can help identify individuals at risk for developing severe symptoms upon exposure to penicillin drugs.
Once the cause of the allergic symptoms is identified, therapeutic doses can be administered under close supervision by a physician to safely treat an infection while avoiding further harm due to an adverse reaction.
Signs of Penicillin Allergy
Mild symptoms include a skin rash, itching, hives, joint pain, and throat tightness. Severe reactions can include anaphylaxis and epidermal necrolysis. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, runny nose, and fever are also possible. It is important to be aware of the signs of a true penicillin allergy before taking any oral dose or injectable form of the antibiotic.
Reactions to Penicillin
When taking any type of medication, it is important to be aware of potential side effects or reactions that could occur. Signs that may indicate an allergic reaction to penicillin include skin redness or rash, itching or swelling, and difficulty breathing. A hypersensitivity reaction to the drug may also present itself in the form of serum sickness or drug rash with fever and swollen lymph nodes. In more severe cases, there may be an anaphylactic reaction that requires emergency medical attention right away.
Diagnosis for Penicillin Allergy
To properly diagnose and treat a penicillin allergy, healthcare professionals need to take a careful history of any previous allergic reactions as well as ask about related medications taken in the past, such as amoxicillin or cephalosporins. This information can help determine if there is a true allergy and then guide treatment decisions accordingly. If testing proves that an individual has a true penicillin allergy, then antibiotics from other classes, such as macrolides or tetracyclines, can still be used for infections such as strep throat, sinus infections, dental infections, and others caused by bacteria susceptible to these drugs to successfully treat the infection without putting the patient at risk for an adverse reaction.
Test Options for Detecting Penicillin Allergy
During penicillin allergy tests, medical professionals carefully monitor patients for safety. Multiple tests are available to diagnose penicillin allergy, each varying in accuracy:
Treat Penicillin Allergy at Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy
Antihistamines
Antihistamines alleviate mild to moderate penicillin allergy symptoms like itching and hives. Forms include oral tablets, liquids, creams, and gels. Over-the-counter choices comprise diphenhydramine (Benadryl), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and loratadine (Claritin.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and severe penicillin allergy reactions. Administered orally or by injection for short-term use, they include prednisone, methylprednisolone, and hydrocortisone.
Immunotherapy (Desensitization)
Immunotherapy gradually increases penicillin doses, building tolerance. Done under supervision over hours or days, it’s for confirmed penicillin allergy patients under professional guidance.
Epinephrine Injections
Epinephrine injections like EpiPens treat severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Rapidly reversing symptoms like breathing difficulties and swelling, they are crucial for emergencies. Immediate medical attention is vital after use.
“This was my first visit to Penn Medicine, Becker, ENT and Allergy and it was a very pleasant experience.
Front desk staff, the technician Dee made me feel very comfortable. Dr. Akl was very professional and explained everything that we were going to do very clearly. I highly recommend Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy.”
— Donna Schaefer
Risks Associated with Ignoring a Penicillin Allergy
Ignoring a penicillin allergy may be extremely dangerous, leading to severe anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include hypotension (low blood pressure), difficulty breathing, and rapid swelling of the face or throat. In some cases, a patient can have a cross-reactive drug reaction to other antibiotics if they unknowingly take even a small dose of penicillin when they are allergic, so it is important to be aware of any potential allergies before taking any type of antibiotic.
Why Choose Our Specialists?
Elias Akl, MD
Dr. Elias Akl, is a distinguished allergist and immunologist based in Philadelphia. He holds board certifications in Allergy and Immunology as well as Internal Medicine, showcasing his expertise in multiple medical disciplines. Dr. Akl is not only board-certified in internal medicine but also a Fellow of the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology (FAAAAI).
Kathryn Edwards, MD
Dr. Kathryn Edwards, Director of Allergy & Immunology at The Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy Center, is a board-certified allergist and immunologist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies, food allergies, skin conditions, and asthma. She is a highly trained physician with extensive experience in the military, where she served as a pediatrician and chief of Allergy/Immunology. Dr. Edwards provides care for patients of all ages, from neonates to geriatrics.
Naba Sharif, MD
Dr. Naba Sharif is a highly skilled board-certified Allergist and Immunologist with expertise in diagnosing and treating allergies, including environmental and seasonal allergies, food allergies, and asthma. She received her medical degree from SUNY at Stony Brook School of Medicine, completed a Pediatrics residency at Hasbro Children’s Hospital of Brown University, and pursued a fellowship in Allergy and Immunology at the North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System. She practiced as a Pediatrician and Allergist-Immunologist at Kaiser Permanente in Washington DC, was recognized as a Top Doctor by Washingtonian Magazine from 2016 to 2020, and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology and the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
Jamie Zacharias, MD
Dr. Jamie Zacharias is a highly accomplished and board-certified Allergist and Immunologist hailing from South Jersey. She pursued her education in her hometown, graduating from Bishop Eustace Preparatory School, and furthered her academic journey by earning her bachelor’s and medical degrees from Drexel University and the College of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. Dr. Zacharias continued her medical training with an Internal Medicine internship and residency at Drexel University College of Medicine/Hahnemann University Hospital. Following this, she completed a comprehensive Allergy and Immunology fellowship at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, where she actively engaged in asthma research, particularly focusing on patient demographics and phenotyping.
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Questions About Penicillin Allergy
We understand that you may have additional questions regarding penicillin allergy treatment. To help address some common concerns, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and their answers.
Can I develop a penicillin allergy later in life?
Yes, it is possible to develop a sensitivity to penicillin later in life, even if you have taken penicillin antibiotics without any problem in the past. Also, if a patient has shown signs of a true allergic reaction, then re-exposure to penicillin or a related antibiotic can trigger an allergic reaction.
Is it possible to outgrow a penicillin allergy?
Yes, many people who are diagnosed with a penicillin allergy as children can become tolerant to the antibiotic as they grow older. Studies have shown that up to 80% of children who are diagnosed with penicillin intolerance will outgrow it by the time they reach adulthood. However, it is essential to consult with an allergist before attempting to take penicillin again, as the allergy may still be present.
What are some alternative antibiotics for individuals with penicillin allergies?
There are various alternative antibiotics that can be used by individuals with penicillin allergies, including cephalosporins, macrolides, and fluoroquinolones. Your healthcare provider will recommend the most appropriate antibiotic based on your specific infection and medical history.
Can I receive the flu vaccine if I have a penicillin allergy?
Yes, individuals with penicillin allergies can safely receive the flu vaccine, as it does not contain penicillin or any penicillin-related antibiotics.
What steps should be taken if there is suspicion of a penicillin allergy?
If you suspect that you are allergic to penicillin, it is essential to consult with a qualified allergist, who will help determine if you have a true allergy and recommend appropriate treatment options. Also, be sure to tell your doctors and pharmacist in order to avoid a reaction.
How can I prevent cross-reactivity with other antibiotics?
To prevent cross-reactivity with other antibiotics, it is important to accurately identify your penicillin intolerance and inform your healthcare provider about it. Your healthcare provider can then determine which antibiotics are safe for you to take and which ones you should avoid.