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Penicillin allergy — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateInfectionsPenicillin allergyGPhC CRA

A patient presents a prescription for amoxicillin 500mg three times daily for 5 days. He reports a previous immediate rash, lip swelling and wheeze after co-amoxiclav. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: D — Do not dispense and contact the prescriber for a non-penicillin alternative

Lip swelling and wheeze after co-amoxiclav suggest an immediate beta-lactam allergy. Amoxicillin is a penicillin and should not be supplied without prescriber review. Giving the first dose in the pharmacy is unsafe because anaphylaxis risk exists. Flucloxacillin is also a penicillin, so it is not an appropriate pharmacist substitution.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS Drug allergy