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Antibiotic Allergies
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Antibiotic Allergies

A special issue of Pharmacy (ISSN 2226-4787). This special issue belongs to the section "Pharmacy Practice and Practice-Based Research".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 August 2019) | Viewed by 137644

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Meghan Jeffres

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
Interests: antimicrobial adverse reactions; antimicrobial allergies; antimicrobial stewardship; active learning and innoavtive education
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The score of this Special Issue is Management of Antibiotic Allergies. It is well documented that patients labeled as allergic to antibiotics are more likely to receive second-line antibiotics that are often more toxic and less effective. The goal of this issue is to assemble orignial research and reviews about the management of antibiotic allergies in all practice settings.

All published articles will be indexed in PubMed.

Dr. Meghan Jeffres
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Pharmacy is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1800 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Antibiotic allergy
  • Hypersensitivity
  • Cross-reaction

Published Papers (15 papers)

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Research

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11 pages, 213 KiB  
Article
Penicillin Allergy Assessment and Skin Testing in the Outpatient Setting
by Wesley D. Kufel, Julie Ann Justo, P. Brandon Bookstaver and Lisa M. Avery
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 136; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy7030136 - 19 Sep 2019
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4668
Abstract
Penicillin allergies are among of the most commonly reported allergies, yet only 10% of these patients are truly allergic. This leads to potential inadvertent negative consequences for patients and makes treatment decisions challenging for clinicians. Thus, allergy assessment and penicillin skin testing (PST) [...] Read more.
Penicillin allergies are among of the most commonly reported allergies, yet only 10% of these patients are truly allergic. This leads to potential inadvertent negative consequences for patients and makes treatment decisions challenging for clinicians. Thus, allergy assessment and penicillin skin testing (PST) are important management strategies to reconcile and clarify labeled penicillin allergies. While PST is more common in the inpatient setting where the results will immediately impact antibiotic management, this process is becoming of increasing importance in the outpatient setting. PST in the outpatient setting allows clinicians to proactively de-label and educate patients accordingly so beta-lactam antibiotics may be appropriately prescribed when necessary for future infections. While allergists have primarily been responsible for PST in the outpatient setting, there is an increasing role for pharmacist involvement in the process. This review highlights the importance of penicillin allergy assessments, considerations for PST in the outpatient setting, education and advocacy for patients and clinicians, and the pharmacist’s role in outpatient PST. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)

Review

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14 pages, 281 KiB  
Review
Glycopeptide Hypersensitivity and Adverse Reactions
by Vanthida Huang, Nicola A. Clayton and Kimberly H. Welker
Pharmacy 2020, 8(2), 70; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy8020070 - 21 Apr 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5161
Abstract
Glycopeptides, such as vancomycin and teicoplanin, are primarily used in the treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections, such as cellulitis, endocarditis, meningitis, pneumonia, and septicemia, and are some of the most commonly prescribed parenteral antimicrobials. Parenteral glycopeptides are first-line therapy for severe [...] Read more.
Glycopeptides, such as vancomycin and teicoplanin, are primarily used in the treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections, such as cellulitis, endocarditis, meningitis, pneumonia, and septicemia, and are some of the most commonly prescribed parenteral antimicrobials. Parenteral glycopeptides are first-line therapy for severe MRSA infections; however, oral vancomycin is used as a first-line treatment of Clostridioides difficile infections. Also, we currently have the longer-acting lipoglycopeptides, such as dalbavancin, oritavancin, and telavancin to our armamentarium for the treatment of MRSA infections. Lastly, vancomycin is often used as an alternative treatment for patients with β-lactam hypersensitivity. Common adverse effects associated with glycopeptide use include nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity, and Redman Syndrome (RMS). The RMS is often mistaken for a true allergy; however, it is a histamine-related infusion reaction rather than a true immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated allergic reaction. Although hypersensitivity to glycopeptides is rare, both immune-mediated and delayed reactions have been reported in the literature. We describe the various types of glycopeptide hypersensitivity reactions associated with glycopeptides and lipoglycopeptides, including IgE-mediated reactions, RMS, and linear immunoglobulin A bullous dermatosis, as well as describe cross-reactivity with other glycopeptides. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)
23 pages, 392 KiB  
Review
Macrolide Allergic Reactions
by Kristy M. Shaeer, Elias B. Chahine, Sheeba Varghese Gupta and Jonathan C. Cho
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 135; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy7030135 - 18 Sep 2019
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 8739
Abstract
Macrolides are antimicrobial agents that can be used to treat a variety of infections. Allergic reactions to macrolides occur infrequently but can include minor to severe cutaneous reactions as well as systemic life-threatening reactions such as anaphylaxis. Most reports of allergic reactions occurred [...] Read more.
Macrolides are antimicrobial agents that can be used to treat a variety of infections. Allergic reactions to macrolides occur infrequently but can include minor to severe cutaneous reactions as well as systemic life-threatening reactions such as anaphylaxis. Most reports of allergic reactions occurred in patients without prior exposure to a macrolide. Cross-reactivity among macrolides may occur due to the similarities in their chemical structures; however, some published literature indicates that some patients can tolerate a different macrolide. Most published reports detailed an allergic reaction to erythromycin. Desensitization protocols to clarithromycin and azithromycin have been described in the literature. The purpose of this article is to summarize macrolide-associated allergic reactions reported in published literature. An extensive literature search was conducted to identify publications linking macrolides to hypersensitivity reactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)
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12 pages, 2860 KiB  
Review
Sulfonamide Allergies
by Amber Giles, Jaime Foushee, Evan Lantz and Giuseppe Gumina
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 132; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy7030132 - 11 Sep 2019
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 16706
Abstract
As one of the earliest developed antimicrobial classes, sulfonamides remain important therapeutic options for the empiric and definitive treatment of various infectious diseases. In the general population, approximately 3–8% of patients are reported to experience a sulfonamide allergy. Sulfonamide allergies can result in [...] Read more.
As one of the earliest developed antimicrobial classes, sulfonamides remain important therapeutic options for the empiric and definitive treatment of various infectious diseases. In the general population, approximately 3–8% of patients are reported to experience a sulfonamide allergy. Sulfonamide allergies can result in various physical manifestations; however, rash is reported as the most frequently observed. In patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), dermatologic reactions to sulfonamide antimicrobial agents occur 10 to 20 times more frequently compared to immunocompetent patients. This article describes the incidence, manifestations, and risk factors associated with sulfonamide allergies. The potential for cross-reactivity of allergies to sulfonamide antimicrobials with nonantimicrobial sulfonamide medications is also reviewed. Data suggest that substitutions at the N1 and N4 positions are the primary determinants of drug allergy instead of the common sulfonamide moiety. For patients with an indication for a sulfonamide antimicrobial with a listed allergy, it is important for healthcare practitioners to adequately assess the allergic reaction to determine appropriate management. Rechallenge and desensitization strategies may be appropriate for patients with delayed maculopapular eruptions, while alternative treatment options may be prudent for more severe reactions. Available data suggests a low risk of cross-allergenicity between sulfonamide antimicrobial and nonantimicrobial agents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)
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12 pages, 502 KiB  
Review
Aminoglycoside Allergic Reactions
by Lindsey M. Childs-Kean, Kristy M. Shaeer, Sheeba Varghese Gupta and Jonathan C. Cho
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 124; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy7030124 - 29 Aug 2019
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 10119
Abstract
Aminoglycosides are antimicrobial agents that are primarily used for infections caused by Gram-negative pathogens. The purpose of this article is to review the allergic reactions reported in the published literature to aminoglycoside antibiotics. A thorough PubMed search was conducted and excluded non-allergic adverse [...] Read more.
Aminoglycosides are antimicrobial agents that are primarily used for infections caused by Gram-negative pathogens. The purpose of this article is to review the allergic reactions reported in the published literature to aminoglycoside antibiotics. A thorough PubMed search was conducted and excluded non-allergic adverse reactions to aminoglycosides. Allergic reactions to aminoglycosides occur infrequently, but can include cutaneous reactions as well as systemic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Of the evaluated aminoglycosides, gentamicin had the most reported allergic reactions, including the most reports of anaphylaxis, followed by tobramycin, and then amikacin. Most reports of allergic reactions occurred in patients who had a prior exposure to some dosage form of an aminoglycoside. Cross-reactivity among aminoglycosides is common and occurs due to the similarities in their chemical structures. Desensitization protocols to tobramycin have been described in the literature. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)
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14 pages, 484 KiB  
Review
Antibiotic Hypersensitivity Mechanisms
by Jenana H. Maker, Cassandra M. Stroup, Vanthida Huang and Stephanie F. James
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 122; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy7030122 - 27 Aug 2019
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 7528
Abstract
Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat a variety of bacterial infections. As with all medications, hypersensitivity reactions may occur and clinicians should be able to recognize them accurately and recommend appropriate management. Antibiotic related hypersensitivity reactions may be one of four different types: [...] Read more.
Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat a variety of bacterial infections. As with all medications, hypersensitivity reactions may occur and clinicians should be able to recognize them accurately and recommend appropriate management. Antibiotic related hypersensitivity reactions may be one of four different types: Type I reactions, which are IgE mediated and may lead to anaphylaxis; Type II reactions that are antibody-mediated and may result in thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, or hemolytic anemia; Type III reaction that involves an immune complex formation such as vasculitis; and Type IV reactions that consist of four subtypes and typically include a rash of varying level of severity with or without systemic signs and symptoms. Herein, we describe the mechanisms of different types of allergic reactions to commonly prescribed antibiotics and offer recommendations for management. Further, we briefly refer to antibiotic reactions that mimic hypersensitivity reactions but are not immune mediated, such as pseudoallergies and serum sickness-like reactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)
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13 pages, 3337 KiB  
Review
Penicillin Allergy Skin Testing in the Inpatient Setting
by Julie Ann Justo, Wesley D. Kufel, Lisa Avery and P. Brandon Bookstaver
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 120; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy7030120 - 27 Aug 2019
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 11650
Abstract
The consequences of a documented penicillin allergy in the medical record are especially troublesome in acutely ill, hospitalized patients. A penicillin allergy label may lead to alternative or second line therapies resulting in adverse drug events, negative clinical outcomes and increased costs. Reconciling [...] Read more.
The consequences of a documented penicillin allergy in the medical record are especially troublesome in acutely ill, hospitalized patients. A penicillin allergy label may lead to alternative or second line therapies resulting in adverse drug events, negative clinical outcomes and increased costs. Reconciling penicillin allergies is a necessity to facilitate early, optimal therapy and is a shared responsibility among the healthcare team. Penicillin skin testing (PST) has been utilized successfully in hospitalized patients to de-label erroneous penicillin allergies and optimize antibiotic therapy. This targeted review aims to discuss the practical development and implementation of PST in the inpatient setting. This includes a needs assessment checklist with common considerations allowing for customization to one’s institution based on available personnel, time, and technological resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)
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26 pages, 4051 KiB  
Review
Antimicrobial Desensitization: A Review of Published Protocols
by Daniel B. Chastain, Vanessa Johanna Hutzley, Jay Parekh and Jason Val G. Alegro
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 112; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy7030112 - 09 Aug 2019
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 12931
Abstract
Antimicrobial desensitization represents a last-line option for patients with no alternative therapies, where the benefits of this intensive process must outweigh the potential harm from drug exposure. The goal of antimicrobial desensitization procedures is to establish a temporary state of tolerance to drugs [...] Read more.
Antimicrobial desensitization represents a last-line option for patients with no alternative therapies, where the benefits of this intensive process must outweigh the potential harm from drug exposure. The goal of antimicrobial desensitization procedures is to establish a temporary state of tolerance to drugs that may otherwise cause hypersensitivity reactions. While no universal antimicrobial desensitization protocols exist, this review critically analyzes previously published desensitization protocols. The purpose of this review is to provide a greater insight for clinicians and institutions to ensure desensitization procedures are efficacious while minimizing potential for patient harm. With an increasing rate of antimicrobial resistance and the critical need to preserve antimicrobial agents, desensitization may represent another option in our antimicrobial stewardship toolkit. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)
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7 pages, 197 KiB  
Review
Overview and Insights into Carbapenem Allergy
by Yuman Lee and Nicole Bradley
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 110; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy7030110 - 08 Aug 2019
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5014
Abstract
Understanding antibiotic allergies and the risk of cross-sensitivity between and within antibiotic classes can have a substantial impact on patient care. The purpose of this review article is to provide insight into carbapenem allergies, describing the overall incidence, risk factors, and in-class cross-sensitivity. [...] Read more.
Understanding antibiotic allergies and the risk of cross-sensitivity between and within antibiotic classes can have a substantial impact on patient care. The purpose of this review article is to provide insight into carbapenem allergies, describing the overall incidence, risk factors, and in-class cross-sensitivity. A PubMed search was conducted using the following search terms: carbapenem, allergy, cross-sensitivity, incidence, imipenem/cilastatin, meropenem, ertapenem, and doripenem. Article bibliographies and relevant drug monographs were also reviewed. The overall reported incidence of carbapenem allergy is 0.3%–3.7%. Risk of cross-sensitivity between penicillins and carbapenems is less than 1% in patients with a positive penicillin skin test. Data on cross-sensitivity between cephalosporins and carbapenems are limited; however, the risk appears to also be low. No clinical studies have described cross-sensitivity between the carbapenem agents thus far. The limited data available from case reports demonstrates a lack of cross-sensitivity between the individual carbapenems, suggesting that an alternative carbapenem may cautiously be used in patients with a reported carbapenem allergy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)
13 pages, 234 KiB  
Review
Tetracycline Allergy
by Leslie A. Hamilton and Anthony J. Guarascio
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 104; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy7030104 - 03 Aug 2019
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 6048
Abstract
Despite the widespread use of tetracycline antibiotics since the late 1940s, tetracycline hypersensitivity reactions have rarely been described in the literature. A comprehensive PubMed search was performed, including allergic and serious adverse reactions attributed to the tetracyclines class of antibiotics. Of the evaluated [...] Read more.
Despite the widespread use of tetracycline antibiotics since the late 1940s, tetracycline hypersensitivity reactions have rarely been described in the literature. A comprehensive PubMed search was performed, including allergic and serious adverse reactions attributed to the tetracyclines class of antibiotics. Of the evaluated tetracycline analogs, minocycline was attributed to the greatest overall number and severity of serious adverse events reported in the literature, with notable reactions primarily reported as respiratory and dermatologic in nature. Reactions to tetracycline have also been well described in the literature, and although dermatologic reactions are typically less severe in comparison with minocycline and doxycycline, various reports of anaphylactic reactions exist. Although doxycycline has been noted to have had the fewest reports of severe allergic reactions, rare descriptions of life-threatening reactions are still reported in the literature. Allergic reactions regarding tetracyclines are rare; however, adverse reaction type, severity, and frequency among different tetracycline analogs is somewhat variable. A consideration of hypersensitivity and adverse reaction incidence should be performed prior to the selection of individual tetracycline entities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)
16 pages, 580 KiB  
Review
Cephalosporins: A Focus on Side Chains and β-Lactam Cross-Reactivity
by Saira B. Chaudhry, Michael P. Veve and Jamie L. Wagner
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 103; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy7030103 - 29 Jul 2019
Cited by 58 | Viewed by 26757
Abstract
Cephalosporins are among the most commonly prescribed antibiotic classes due to their wide clinical utility and general tolerability, with approximately 1–3% of the population reporting a cephalosporin allergy. However, clinicians may avoid the use of cephalosporins in patients with reported penicillin allergies despite [...] Read more.
Cephalosporins are among the most commonly prescribed antibiotic classes due to their wide clinical utility and general tolerability, with approximately 1–3% of the population reporting a cephalosporin allergy. However, clinicians may avoid the use of cephalosporins in patients with reported penicillin allergies despite the low potential for cross-reactivity. The misdiagnosis of β-lactam allergies and misunderstanding of cross-reactivity among β-lactams, including within the cephalosporin class, often leads to use of broader spectrum antibiotics with poor safety and efficacy profiles and represents a serious obstacle for antimicrobial stewardship. Risk factors for cephalosporin allergies are broad and include female sex, advanced age, and a history of another antibiotic or penicillin allergy; however, cephalosporins are readily tolerated even among individuals with true immediate-type allergies to penicillins. Cephalosporin cross-reactivity potential is related to the structural R1 side chain, and clinicians should be cognizant of R1 side chain similarities when prescribing alternate β-lactams in allergic individuals or when new cephalosporins are brought to market. Clinicians should consider the low likelihood of true cephalosporin allergy when clinically indicated. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the role of cephalosporins in clinical practice, and to highlight the incidence of, risk factors for, and cross-reactivity of cephalosporins with other antibiotics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)
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12 pages, 531 KiB  
Review
Quinolone Allergy
by Edoabasi U. McGee, Essie Samuel, Bernadett Boronea, Nakoasha Dillard, Madison N. Milby and Susan J. Lewis
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 97; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy7030097 - 19 Jul 2019
Cited by 31 | Viewed by 7453
Abstract
Quinolones are the second most common antibiotic class associated with drug-induced allergic reactions, but data on quinolone allergy are scarce. This review article discusses the available evidence on quinolone allergy, including prevalence, risk factors, diagnosis, clinical manifestations, cross-reactivity, and management of allergic reactions. [...] Read more.
Quinolones are the second most common antibiotic class associated with drug-induced allergic reactions, but data on quinolone allergy are scarce. This review article discusses the available evidence on quinolone allergy, including prevalence, risk factors, diagnosis, clinical manifestations, cross-reactivity, and management of allergic reactions. Although the incidence of quinolone allergy is still lower than beta-lactams, it has been increasingly reported in recent decades, most likely from its expanded use and the introduction of moxifloxacin. Thorough patient history remains essential in the evaluation of quinolone allergy. Many diagnostic tools have been investigated, but skin tests can yield false-positive results and in vitro tests have not been validated. The drug provocation test is considered the test of choice to confirm a quinolone allergy but is not without risk. Evidence regarding cross-reactivity among the quinolones is limited and conflicting. Quinolone allergy can be manifested either as an immediate or delayed reaction, but is not uniform across the class, with moxifloxacin posing the highest risk of anaphylaxis. Quinolone should be discontinued when an allergic reaction occurs and avoided in future scenarios, but desensitization may be warranted if no alternatives are available. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)
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7 pages, 475 KiB  
Review
The Basics of Penicillin Allergy: What A Clinician Should Know
by Louis Lteif and Lea S. Eiland
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 94; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy7030094 - 17 Jul 2019
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4554
Abstract
Antimicrobials in the penicillin class are first line treatments for several infectious diseases in the pediatric and adult population today. In the United States, patients commonly report having a penicillin allergy, with penicillin being the most frequent beta-lactam allergy. However, very few patients [...] Read more.
Antimicrobials in the penicillin class are first line treatments for several infectious diseases in the pediatric and adult population today. In the United States, patients commonly report having a penicillin allergy, with penicillin being the most frequent beta-lactam allergy. However, very few patients experience a clinically significant immune-mediated allergic reaction to penicillin. If a true penicillin allergy exists, cross-reactivity to other beta-lactam antimicrobials may occur. Mislabeling patients with penicillin allergy can lead to a higher utilization of second line antimicrobial agents, potentially increasing costs and resistance due to a larger spectrum of activity. Pharmacists play an essential role in inquiring about patient specific reactions to presumed medication allergies and developing a further assessment plan, if needed, to determine if the medication allergy is real. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)
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10 pages, 335 KiB  
Review
Allergic Reactions and Cross-Reactivity Potential with Beta-Lactamase Inhibitors
by Kayla R. Stover, Katie E. Barber and Jamie L. Wagner
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 77; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy7030077 - 28 Jun 2019
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4892
Abstract
Although beta-lactam allergies are an emerging focus of stewardship programs and interventions, less is publicly released regarding allergies to beta-lactamase inhibitors. This review presents and evaluates the data regarding allergic reactions with beta-lactamase inhibitors. Clavulanate, sulbactam, and tazobactam are beta-lactam-based beta-lactamase inhibitors that [...] Read more.
Although beta-lactam allergies are an emerging focus of stewardship programs and interventions, less is publicly released regarding allergies to beta-lactamase inhibitors. This review presents and evaluates the data regarding allergic reactions with beta-lactamase inhibitors. Clavulanate, sulbactam, and tazobactam are beta-lactam-based beta-lactamase inhibitors that are combined with several penicillins or cephalosporins in order to preserve antimicrobial activity in the presence of beta-lactamases. Avibactam, relebactam, and vaborbactam are non-beta-lactam beta-lactamase inhibitors that are combined with cephalosporins or carbapenems in order to expand the antimicrobial activity against broader-spectrum beta-lactamases. Case reports document hypersensitivity reactions to clavulanate, sulbactam, and tazobactam, but not to avibactam, relebactam, or vaborbactam. Based on these reports and considering the chemical structures, cross-allergenicity with beta-lactams is likely with sulbactam and tazobactam. Considering the slightly altered beta-lactam structure, cross-allergenicity is less likely with clavulanate, but still possible. It appears that cross-allergenicity between beta-lactam antimicrobials and the newer, non-beta-lactam beta-lactamase inhibitors is unlikely. It is important for clinicians to perform allergy testing to both the beta-lactam and the beta-lactamase inhibitor in order to confirm the specific allergy and reaction type. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)
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11 pages, 235 KiB  
Review
Strategies for Clarifying Penicillin Allergies When Skin Testing Is Not an Option
by Elizabeth W. Covington, Mary Joyce B. Wingler, Rebecca A. Jayakumar and C. Whitney White
Pharmacy 2019, 7(2), 69; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmacy7020069 - 19 Jun 2019
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4195
Abstract
Patients with reported penicillin allergies have been proven to experience negative health consequences, such as increased cost, suboptimal antimicrobial therapy, and adverse reactions. Though skin testing has been proposed as a method to clarify penicillin allergies, many institutions may lack the resources to [...] Read more.
Patients with reported penicillin allergies have been proven to experience negative health consequences, such as increased cost, suboptimal antimicrobial therapy, and adverse reactions. Though skin testing has been proposed as a method to clarify penicillin allergies, many institutions may lack the resources to perform skin testing on a wide scale. This literature review describes the current literature surrounding the use of penicillin allergy interviews when skin testing is not an option. Specifically, the review highlights the steps in carrying out a successful antibiotic allergy patient interview, summarizes the clinical evidence surrounding antibiotic allergy clarifications, and addresses key advantages and disadvantages of clarifying antibiotic allergies without the availability of skin testing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Allergies)
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