Drug allergy management in the elderly

Purpose of review Drug allergy management has previously not been emphasized in the elderly. However, the geriatric population poses several unique characteristics, challenges for drug allergy testing and considerations in the management. Especially in the era of COVID-19, the elderly population is a vulnerable cohort and reviewing the management during this unprecedented time is both timely and relevant. Recent findings In recent years, larger scale studies focusing on the epidemiology and prevalence trends of drug allergies among older adults has been summarized in this review. Emphasis on anaphylaxis in the older adults has been studied. There are many implications of these findings. Epidemiological studies are useful in realizing the burden and spectrum of drug allergies on our healthcare system. It has allowed us to identify certain barriers in drug allergy management and develop ways to overcome these challenges through. Lastly, we have proposed an approach to drug allergy management based on previous studies as well as from our perspective and local experience.

Automated summary

Management of drug allergies in the elderly has been under-emphasized previously, but recent studies have shed light on the epidemiology and prevalence trends, particularly focusing on anaphylaxis. Understanding these findings can help identify barriers in drug allergy management and develop strategies to overcome them. A proposed approach to drug allergy management based on previous studies and local experience can be beneficial in improving care for older adults.