Allergy - Drug Panel (Maxi)

Allergy-Drug Panel is an allergy screening test done:

• To measure the IgE-mediated response to 8 commonly used drugs.
• To determine the exact drug component that is causing an allergic reaction.
• To evaluate the allergen behind the anaphylactic shock.

Drug allergy test measures the IgE-mediated response to 8 common drug components. These include Penicillin V, Penicillin G, Human Insulin, Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Paracetamol, Ciprofloxacin, and Sulfa.

Total IgE levels are also measured. Further tests to a specific allergen will help in further diagnosis.

Drug allergy test requires a blood sample post exposure to the drug panel. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer. 

Positive result to a particular allergen indicates that the person is allergic to that particular drug. The same must be communicated to any doctor prior to prescribing medicines for these patients. Increased allergen-specific IgE levels further confirms that. If a medicine with the allergic drug component is consumed, it may even trigger adverse drug reactions which may often prove fatal. Hence, caution is required. Very often the test may be positive for more than one allergen as well. The further treatment course is decided based on the results.

In the case of mild allergy, if your allergy symptoms last for longer than two weeks and are recurring, you should consult your doctor. The doctor may recommend an allergy drug test getting done.

In case of immediate allergic reaction to drugs or other allergens which results in troubled breathing, increased heart beat etc, you should consult your doctor immediately. Based on your condition, your doctor may recommend allergy panel screening.

Not always. In some cases, the symptoms of a drug allergy may be mild and go away. However, in other cases, it can be life-threatening if it causes symptoms such as swelling, irregular heartbeat, difficulty in breathing, and unconsciousness.

Drugs such as penicillin, ibuprofen, carbamazepine, trastuzumab, and docetaxel may cause allergic reactions in some people.

Drug reactions can occur immediately within an hour or may take days or weeks to develop.

You need no special precaution to undergo an allergy test. However, inform your doctor if you are taking medications before taking an allergy test.

• IgE Drug Allergy Test
• Drug Panel Test
• Drug Allergy Test