Majority of Australians who report penicillin allergy not truly allergic

Australians who claim to be allergic to penicillin are mostly not actually allergic. This is according to new evidence that suggests up to 90% of those who report an allergy do not have one. The peak body for immunologists has updated its guidelines in response, aiming to reduce unnecessary hospital stays and combat antimicrobial resistance by making it easier for doctors to safely prescribe penicillin. This change could help alleviate pressure on hospitals and promote more effective use of antibiotics.

Why it matters

Many Australians who report a penicillin allergy do not actually have one. This overreporting can lead to unnecessary use of alternative antibiotics, which can drive antibiotic resistance.

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