Most children with reported hypersensitivity reactions to non-beta-lactam antibiotics (NBLAs) have negative allergy tests and should be re-evaluated, Melbourne researchers say.

Lead researcher Dr Lisa Grinlington, of the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, says doctors may need to refer children who report sensitivities for further testing.

“Our study has shown that all children who report hypersensitivity reactions to NBLAs should be referred for formal allergy evaluation, given that the large majority of children can have their allergy label removed,” she said.

“Prompt evaluation of drug allergies is required to minimise the health and socioeconomic impacts of these labels.”