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Cellulitis with penicillin allergy — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateInfectionsCellulitis with penicillin allergyGPhC CRA

A 46-year-old man presents a prescription for flucloxacillin 500mg four times daily for cellulitis. The pharmacy record shows immediate facial swelling and wheeze after amoxicillin 2 years ago. He is afebrile and has no systemic features today. What is the most appropriate alternative?

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Correct answer: A — contact the prescriber because flucloxacillin is unsuitable with immediate penicillin allergy

Facial swelling and wheeze after amoxicillin suggest immediate hypersensitivity to penicillin. Flucloxacillin is a penicillin and should not be supplied without prescriber review. The prescriber may choose a non-penicillin alternative depending on local guidance and infection severity. Antihistamine cover does not make the prescription safe.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS: Cellulitis