An Allergist's Approach to Beta-lactam Allergies

Beta-lactams are the most commonly used antibiotics, but hypersensitivity reactions are common and complex to manage. Clinicians are often faced with the dilemma of choosing alternative antibiotics which may be less efficacious and more toxic.

This discussion focuses on  the pharmacologic mechanisms of beta-lactam allergies and an allergist's approach in diagnosing true beta-lactam allergies and evaluating for the safe use of alternative beta-lactams.