Drug Desensitization

What is drug desensitization?

If your immune system mistakes a drug for a harmful substance or foreign invader, a drug allergy results. Instead of being able to help you, the medication then becomes potentially dangerous to your health.

Hypersensitivity to medications can cause severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, during crucial medical treatments. At the Asthma, Allergy, & Immunology Center, the team uses drug desensitization to induce temporary tolerance to a medication through carefully controlled, gradual administration.

With drug desensitization, you can receive the medical treatments you need without having to endure severe allergic reactions.

How do I know if I need drug desensitization?

A drug allergy isn’t the same as a drug side effect. Allergic reactions to medications often occur within an hour of taking them and may look like:

• Hives
• Itching
• Flushing
• Fever
• Wheezing
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Runny nose

Other severe symptoms, like rashes, can occur days or even weeks after taking the drug. If you experience symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as tightening airways, making it difficult to breathe, call 911 and get prompt medical attention.

What is the process for drug desensitization?

First, the Asthma, Allergy, & Immunology Center team will perform tests to confirm the type and severity of a drug allergy. Then, the first step is to deliver a minimal amount of the medication to give your system time to adjust.

At fixed intervals (every 15 minutes, for example), the team increases the dose very slightly and administers it until you can take the total dose. This non-allergic state is temporary, and once the treatment is discontinued, you’ll need to go through the process again to repeat a full dose.

If you have immediate hypersensitivity reactions, the team may use rapid intravenous desensitization for your treatment. Other methods include oral and subcutaneous routes.

Why is it essential to rely on a professional team for drug desensitization?

Highly trained physicians, allergists, and specialized nurses can monitor your treatment and administer precise dosages to ensure your safety. They can weigh the benefits of vital medications against the risks allergic reactions pose to your health.

The Asthma, Allergy, & Immunology Center team stays at the leading edge of current treatments to ensure optimal results from your care. To schedule an appointment and discuss whether drug desensitization can benefit you, call the nearest office today or book online.