Drug challenge in the allergy clinic (1308)

Key points below


What is a drug challenge?

This procedure is done to see if a patient can take a medicine that caused a reaction in the past.

When is a drug challenge done?

Why is it done in the clinic?

What happens during a clinic drug challenge?

How do I prepare for a drug challenge?

Who should not have a drug challenge?

A drug challenge should not be done:

What are the risks?

Mild reactions may happen during or after the challenge. They include:

Rash, a few hives, eczema that gets worse, diarrhea, sneezing, stuffy nose, runny nose, a change in behavior or a headache.

Serious reactions do not happen often, but can be very serious. They can lead to death if not treated. Tell the nurse right away if you have any of the following:

Call 9-1-1 if any of these symptoms happen after leaving the clinic!

What happens if a reaction happens?

What happens after a clinic drug challenge?

ALERT

Call your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic if you have any questions or concerns or if your child has special health care needs that were not covered by this information.