Allergy Test Preparation
Pre-Visit Instructions for Allergy Testing
In preparation for allergy testing, please carefully review the following instructions regarding antihistamine-containing medications.
- Discontinue antihistamine-containing medications for at least 72 hours (3 days) before your appointment.
- This includes both prescription and over-the-counter antihistamines. Many cold and allergy medications contain antihistamines.
Other Products That May Contain Antihistamines
- Motion sickness medications, including Dramamine and Antivert.
- Over-the-counter sleep aids such as Tylenol PM and Sominex.
- Medications used to treat nausea, including Phenergan.
- Some acid-reducing medications, including Tagamet, Axid and Zantac. (Prilosec and Prevacid do not contain antihistamines.)
- Muscle relaxants such as Flexeril.
Antidepressants
Tricyclic antidepressants, including imipramine, desipramine, amitriptyline and nortriptyline, may contain antihistamine properties. Please speak with your physician before discontinuing any antidepressant medication.
Prescription Allergy Nasal Sprays
Most prescription allergy nasal steroid sprays and asthma medications do not contain antihistamines and may be continued.
Astelin, Astepro and Patanase are exceptions and should be discontinued six days before your allergy testing appointment.
Asthma Inhalers
Please continue using your asthma inhalers as prescribed. You do not need to stop these medications before allergy testing.
Questions About Your Medications?
If you are unsure whether a medication contains antihistamines, or if you are uncertain whether it is safe to discontinue a medication, please contact your physician or our office before your appointment.
Learn more about the types of tests we offer on our Allergy Testing page.