Patient Instructions for Food Challenges

In order to help evaluate a food allergy, an oral food challenge may be recommended. This will involve eating a particular food in small increasing amounts under the direct supervision of an allergist. Only one food can be tested per visit. Schedule an appointment at the beginning of the day and at least two weeks after the last ingestion of the food in question. If more than one challenge is needed, they should be scheduled at least two weeks apart.

The following instructions are necessary for the best results:

  1. Bring EpiPen two-pack to your appointment.
  2. Avoid any anti-histamines for at least five days prior to testing. Review all current medications with medical personnel prior to testing.
  3. No injections or new medications for 24 hours prior to or after the food challenge.
  4. Read the list below and bring the appropriate item.
  5. Testing may last three to four hours.

Please bring the appropriate amount of food to be tested:

  • Egg - two scrambled eggs without dairy products added in a closed container.
  • Peanut - one cup smooth all-natural peanut butter (without additives).
  • Wheat - two cups of regular Cream of WheatTM , cooked without dairy.
  • Soy - two cups of soy infant formula or soy milk without flavoring.
  • Milk - two cups.
  • Other - per doctor instructions, usually two cups or more than a usual customary serving.

It is okay to eat your normal diet prior to testing. Please bring some activities to occupy your time and wear comfortable clothing.

If the patient has been ill, including increased skin problems, within two weeks prior to testing, please notify us at the time of scheduling. If an illness begins after the test is scheduled, call the office prior to the appointment to assure that testing will continue. Please stay locally for at least 24 hours following a food challenge.

All testing is done in a controlled setting, specifically designed for specialty procedures with safety measures available for adverse reactions.

Your cooperation in observing the above instructions is necessary and will ensure timely, accurate results.

Follow up instructions:

  1. Have anti-histamines on hand at home, such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine).
  2. Report any adverse reactions to our office immediately 417-875-3742.