Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
Refer a patient with a history of drug hypersensitivity to a specialist drug allergy service if they have experienced:
- a suspected anaphylactic reaction to any drug NICE CG183
- a severe non-immediate cutaneous reaction such as drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), Stevens–Johnson Syndrome, or toxic epidermal necrolysis NICE CG183
- a suspected allergic reaction to a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with symptoms like anaphylaxis, severe angioedema, or an asthmatic reaction NICE CG183
- a suspected allergy to beta-lactam antibiotics when they need treatment with these antibiotics or are likely to require them frequently in the future NICE CG183
- an inability to undergo a procedure involving a local anaesthetic due to suspected allergy NICE CG183
- anaphylaxis or another suspected allergic reaction during or immediately after general anaesthesia NICE CG183
Consider referral if:
- the patient cannot take beta-lactam antibiotics and at least one other antibiotic class due to suspected allergies NICE CG183
In all cases, document the suspected drug allergy in the medical records, stop the suspected drug, treat acute symptoms if needed, and provide the patient with information about their allergy NICE CG183.