Smridhi Mahajan, N. Batra, John Trickett, Timothy G. Chow
tlooto Summary
The study findings support the need for comprehensive allergy evaluation and patient education, as well as a need for the consideration of delabeling strategies regarding drug-related quality of life.
Abstract
Background Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) hypersensitivity reactions are common and can lead to medication avoidance and health anxiety.
Objective Despite their frequency, the specific impact of NSAID hypersensitivity on quality of life in a US population remains underexplored. We therefore aimed to explore this impact.
Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey to evaluate drug-related quality of life using the validated Drug Hypersensitivity Quality of Life Questionnaire, a 15-item tool measuring the impact of drug allergy on quality of life. The study population consisted of adults with self-reported NSAID allergy from January 2014 to January 2024 at a tertiary academic medical center and a county hospital in Dallas, Texas.
Results In total, 154 adults had NSAID allergy documented in their electronic medical record. All 154 individuals were contacted, and of the 70 who were reached, 61 completed the survey (79% female, 61% White, 38% Black, and 28% Hispanic). The majority (87%) reported prior NSAID reactions, with common symptoms including dyspnea (52%) and rash (33%). Their mean Drug Hypersensitivity Quality of Life Questionnaire score was 42.87 plus or minus 15.52, indicating a substantial burden on quality of life. Top concerns included fear of receiving an allergy-provoking medication during an emergency situation and the desire for allergist input before medical use. Lifestyle limitations were reported as minimal. Comorbid aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease and chronic spontaneous urticaria were reported in 34% and 20% of the participants, respectively.
Conclusions NSAID hypersensitivity is associated with significant quality of life burden in a US population, driven by anxiety around medication safety. The study findings support the need for comprehensive allergy evaluation and patient education, as well as a need for the consideration of delabeling strategies regarding drug-related quality of life.
Citation format
MAHAJAN, Smridhi, et al. NSAID drug hypersensitivity in a United States-based population: An assessment of quality of life. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: Global, 2026, 5 3(3): 100646.