Q: A child comes in with a rash a few days after receiving AMOXICILLIN for an ear infection. It is red, blotchy, and spreads across the body. It appears to be a drug reaction rather than a viral exanthem. Does this mean the child cannot take PENICILLIN in the future? Is the child restricted from trying any other “CILLIN” – DICLOXACILLIN, etc.
— Dr. L
Dear Dr. L,
The majority of side effects observed in AMOXICILLIN clinical trials were of a mild and transient nature and less than 3% of patients discontinued therapy because of drug-related side effects. The most frequently reported adverse effects were diarrhea/loose stools (9%), nausea (3%), skin rashes and urticaria (3%).
This is an “allergic reaction” but it is NOT related to a life threatening one. I think there is little risk if the child takes PENICILLIN in the future and should not be restricted from trying any other “CILLIN”, including DICLOXACILLIN.
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