Cross reactivity refers to the potential of a patient with an allergy to penicillin to react to antibiotics of the cephalosporin family and vice versa. True cross-reactivity is thought to occur in only 2% of cases and is related to similarities of the beta lactam ring and side chains (Joint Task Force on Practice Parameters, 2010).
See the cross-reactivity table below to help choose safe alternatives for children with a known penicillin or cephalosporin allergy.
Pichichero ME. A review of evidence supporting the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation for prescribing cephalosporin antibiotics for penicillin-allergic patients. Pediatrics 2005;115(4):1048-57.
Drop the label is a multidisciplinary group of allergists, pediatricians, pharmacists, family physicians, and other healthcare providers based out of British Columbia. We promote education and tools to support prescribers serving people with potential antibiotic allergies.
