Aspirin hypersensitivity and desensitization protocols: implications for cardiac patients

Phil Lambrakis; Gordon F Rushworth; Jane Adamson; Stephen J Leslie

doi:10.1177/2042098611422558

Aspirin hypersensitivity and desensitization protocols: implications for cardiac patients

Ther Adv Drug Saf. 2011 Dec;2(6):263-70. doi: 10.1177/2042098611422558.

Authors

Phil Lambrakis¹, Gordon F Rushworth², Jane Adamson¹, Stephen J Leslie³

Affiliations

¹ NHS Highland, Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, UK.
² Highland Clinical Research Facility, Centre for Health Science, Inverness, UK.
³ Consultant Cardiologist, Cardiac Unit, Raigmore Hospital, Inverness IV2 3UJ, and University of Stirling, Highland Campus, Old Perth Road, Inverness IV2 3JH, UK.

Abstract

Aspirin or acetylsalicylic acid is an important therapy for many cardiology patients but hypersensitivity to this drug affects around 1% of the population and intolerance may affect up to 20%. While alternative medications to aspirin are available, in many cases there is a compelling need for aspirin therapy. In these patients, aspirin desensitization may be considered. However, this is a complex issue with a lack of international standardization. This article reviews the available evidence for aspirin desensitization and provides practical advice for the management of these patients.

Keywords: acetylsalicylic acid; allergy; aspirin; desensitization; hypersensitivity.

Publication types

Review