Which drug class should be avoided in patients with known hypersensitivity to soy or peanuts?

The correct answer is related to the presence of lecithin, which is derived from soy and is a common ingredient in some nebulized medications. Patients with hypersensitivity to soy or peanuts may experience allergic reactions if they are administered medications containing lecithin, as it poses a risk of an adverse immune response.

This highlights the importance of screening for allergies before administering certain therapies, particularly nebulized medications, as they may not only serve their intended purpose of treating respiratory conditions but also inadvertently trigger serious allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Therefore, healthcare providers must carefully review patient medical histories to avoid prescribing drugs that could provoke these reactions.

Inhaled corticosteroids, short-acting beta-agonists, and long-acting beta-agonists do not typically contain soy or peanut derivatives, making them safer alternatives for patients with such sensitivities. This distinction emphasizes the need for awareness regarding the composition of specific drug formulations in respiratory therapy.