- Written by Philippa Roxby
- health reporter
Millions of people mistakenly believe they are allergic to penicillin, pharmacists say, and can take longer to recover after infection.
Around four million people in the UK have a drug allergy on their medical records, but research suggests that 90% do not have an allergy when tested.
The Royal Pharmaceutical Society says many people confuse antibiotic side effects with allergic reactions.
Other symptoms include nausea, shortness of breath, cough, diarrhea, and runny nose.
However, antibiotics that treat bacterial infections can themselves cause nausea and diarrhea, and the underlying infection can also cause a rash.
This means that people often mistakenly believe they are allergic to penicillin, which is found in many good common antibiotics.
These are used to treat chest, skin, and urinary tract infections, but if an allergy is diagnosed, second-line antibiotics are given, but they may be less effective.
‘low risk’
Research previously found There were 6 additional deaths per 1,000 patients per year after receiving non-penicillin antibiotics to treat infections.
Tase Optu from the RPS said: “While many people have a low or very low risk of developing a genuine penicillin allergy, careful investigation often reveals that penicillin can be taken safely.” Ta.
He encouraged people in such positions to ask pharmacists about allergy labels the next time they visit their GP.
Allergies that occurred in childhood or were reported years ago may also subside and become less of a problem.
Mild to moderate allergic reactions can usually be treated with antihistamines, such as:
- Raised, itchy skin rash (urticaria or hives)
- coughing
- wheezing
- May cause throat tightness and difficulty breathing
Common side effects of antibiotics include:
- nausea
- bloating and indigestion
- diarrhea
Optu added that people who have had severe reactions in the past will need allergy testing and may be told never to take penicillin.
The charity Allergy UK said many people carry the label of penicillin allergy from childhood and can carry it for the rest of their lives without being investigated.
Amena Warner, director of clinical services, said: “There is currently a national effort underway to investigate this issue and how best to tackle it.”
There is a long wait to see an allergist and get a definitive test.
But experts say there are other ways to remove the label of penicillin allergy, and collecting a detailed history of symptoms is the main way. This may be given to your health care professional as part of your consultation.