What are Drug Challenges?
Drug challenges are medical procedures designed to help diagnose and manage drug allergies. They involve the controlled and supervised administration of a suspected allergenic medication in a healthcare setting, often a hospital or allergy clinic. The goal of drug challenges is to confirm or rule out a drug allergy, especially when there is uncertainty about whether a patient is genuinely allergic or not.
Am I a Candidate?
If you or your loved one’s medical condition requires the use of a potentially allergenic drug, then drug challenges can be a big help. The results can help one avoid unnecessary medication restrictions and get on the path to safer and more effective treatment options. Due to the risk of allergic reactions during this procedure, it should only be conducted by trained medical professionals, like the board certified team at Laguna Allergy.
What Can I Expect During This Procedure?
During the challenge, your board certified allergist will gradually administer increasing doses of the medication and closely monitor you or your child for any allergic reactions. If no reaction occurs, it suggests the patient is not allergic to that drug and can safely use it.
What Drugs are Commonly Tested Through Drug Challenges?
Common drugs tested during drug challenges include antibiotics like penicillin or cephalosporins, pain relievers like aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and local anesthetics. The choice of which drug to test depends on the patient’s medical history and the suspected allergen.
Schedule Drug Challenges in Aliso Viejo, CA
At Laguna Allergy Medical Boutique, this procedure will be conducted by Dr. Gillian Bassirpour and Kristen Walters. They are both board certified allergists and dedicated mothers, so you can schedule an appointment knowing that you and your loved ones are in good hands. To find out how our experts can assist you, click the appointment button below or give us a call at 949-287-4900.
