Instructions Prior to Allergy Testing

Dr. Kimi Dart - Lake Jackson, TX Allergy Testing

1.  DO NOT TAKE any antihistamines for 6 DAYS PRIOR to testing, including…

  • Brand name antihistamines (Benadryl, Claritin, Clarinex, Zyrtec, Xyzal, Allegra)
  • Antihistamine nasal sprays (Astelin, Astepro, Patanase, Afrin, Azelastine, Oxymetazoline)
  • Antihistamine/decongestant eye drops (Bausch & Lomb, Naphcon, Vasocon, Pataday, Pazeo) 
  • Cough medications (Triaminic, Tussionex) 
  • Cold and/or sinus medications (Advil Cold & Sinus, Tylenol Cold & Sinus)
  • Over-the-counter sleep aids (Advil PM, Tylenol PM, ZzzQuil, Unisom)
Allergy Testing in Lake Jackson, TX

2.  DO NOT TAKE the following medications AT LEAST 1 DAY PRIOR to testing…

  • Indigestion medications (Tagament, Pepcid, Zantac)
    HOWEVER: Tums, Maalox, prescription medications are OK to take.

3.  Inform the physician AT LEAST 1 WEEK PRIOR to testing if you are taking any type of beta-blocker to treat high blood pressure, migraines, heart problems, performance anxiety, or glaucoma (eye drops)

4.  DO NOT wear cologne, scented body lotion, or scented hair products on day of testing
HOWEVER: Deodorant is OK to wear.

5.  You CAN TAKE the following medications:

  • Nasal steroid sprays (Flonase, Fluticasone, Nasonex, Veramyst, Omnaris, Nasocort, Rhinocort, mometasone)
  • Pain-relieving medication (Aspirin, Excedrin, Tylenol, Advil, Aleve)
  • Oral decongestants (Sudafed)
    HOWEVER: No antihistamines (Benadryl, etc. – see #1 above)

6.  You DO NOT need to fast on the day of testing, and you CAN BRING a beverage/snack.

7.  All medications CAN be resumed after testing.
HOWEVER: If you plan on starting allergy immunotherapy, DO NOT resume taking beta blockers.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding allergy testing, please contact Dr. Dart’s office at (979) 258-5445. If you need to cancel/reschedule your appointment, please let us know at least 24 hours in advance.