Penicillins, including amoxicillin, are our best antibiotics and are used to treat many infections caused by bacteria in adults. That’s why we offer penicillin allergy testing, to explore whether it might be safe for you to remove your penicillin allergy label in your medical history
What is a penicillin allergy? Some people may develop a reaction to penicillin’s or other antibiotics closely related to penicillin. These reactions can range from a mild rash to rare life-threatening allergic reactions. But most reactions are actually mild side effects of the medication or infection itself and are not dangerous. They do not mean someone is allergic to penicillin.
Why is Delabeling important?
If you are labelled as having a penicillin allergy, your doctor may have to select a less effective antibiotic to treat your condition, which could result in slower recovery and more side effects.
Before your appointment
- Avoid antihistamines for 48–72 hours (if possible)
- Eat before you arrive
- Wear comfortable clothing
Here’s what to expect during the challenge:
- Before the challenge starts, your care provider will make sure that precautions are in place, just in case you have a reaction.
- You will receive one dose of a penicillin, either in an oral form (called amoxicillin)
- You will stay for 60 minutes, with your care provider observing you in case of a reaction.
If you show any signs or symptoms of an allergic reaction, you will immediately be assessed and if necessary, treated with the right medications to help.
If you don’t show any signs or symptoms of an allergic reaction, this means you have successfully passed the penicillin challenge! We will give you a card that you can bring to your family doctor and pharmacy so that your records can be updated there, too.
After the test
- You may go home if you feel well
- Rare delayed symptoms may occur within 1–3 days
- Seek immediate medical attention if you develop:
- Rash
- Hives
- Swelling
- Breathing difficulty
Questions?
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to outpatientclinic@torontograce.org
Referrals
e-referrals are located on OCEAN HealthMap “ Penicillin Allergy Testing Clinic – Toronto Grace Outpatient Clinic’