A study found that full-dose challenges of beta-lactam antibiotics in emergency department patients with moderate, severe, or unknown allergies can safely reduce unnecessary antibiotic regimens, save costs, and preserve future antibiotic effectiveness. The study analyzed data from 184 patients with beta-lactam allergies treated in the ED, with 90% reporting penicillin allergies. Allergic reactions were noted in 2.7% of patients, with no cases of anaphylaxis. Updated records showed most patients had their allergy profiles modified. The findings suggest that addressing beta-lactam allergies directly can benefit patients and improve antibiotic selection. Limitations include potential biases and reliance on EMR accuracy.
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Full-Dose Beta-Lactam Allergy Challenges in ED
