Before Skin Testing

Patient Instruction for Skin Testing

Skin testing consists of introducing a small amount of antigen (the substance you may be allergic to) into the skin. In most cases, single or multi-pronged plastic devices will be used to place the antigen on the back or lower arms. Occasionally there is a need to also inject the antigen into the superficial layers of the skin. A positive reaction may be determined within 15-20 minutes and involves localized swelling and itching in the area which the antigen was placed.

Antihistamines cause inaccurate skin test results. Please discontinue all medications containing antihistamines for the appropriate time as listed below.

Continue ALL ASTHMA medications (including pills and inhalers) as ordered by your physician.

NO SKIN TESTING WILL BE DONE ON:

• Patients who are pregnant

• Patients who are ill or wheezing

• Patients with a rash or hives on the day of skin testing

• Patients who are under 18 years old unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian or have a signed parental consent

• Patients taking the following medications. Do not stop taking these medications! Call us to discuss alternatives to the skin test.

Beta-blocker medications (Atenolol, Inderal, etc.), including beta-blocker eye drops

Amitriptyline (Elavil)

Desipramine (Norpramin)

Doxepin (Sinequan)

Imipramine (Tofranil)

Timipramine (Surmontil)

Nortriptyline (Pamelor)

Trazadone

Clomipramine

Trimipramine

Amoxapine

Protripty line

Maprotiline

Stelazine

On the day of your appointment:

• Bring a list of all medications (prescription and over the counter) you are currently using so that they may be reviewed prior to testing

• Wear a short sleeved shirt

• After the skin testing is completed, an appointment will be made with an Allergist to discuss your results and to develop a treatment plan.

Please call us if you have any questions.

DO NOT TAKE THE FOLLOWING MEDICATIONS FOR 72 HOURS

(OR LONGER WHERE SPECIFIED) PRIOR TO SKIN TESTING

Please note that any over the counter medication containing the word “PM” will most likely contain an antihistamine.