Concerns About Medication: Amoxicillin Allergy Risks for Patients

Medication concerns

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask you about folliculitis in my nose that seems to have a bacterial infection with pus.
I am allergic to Penicillin (causing eye swelling, ear swelling, and rashes), which I have informed the clinic physician.
The doctor prescribed Amoxicillin for me.
I would like to know if it is possible for Amoxicillin to also cause an allergic reaction.

TG, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/07

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, Penicillin and Amoxicillin are in the same class of medications, so if you are allergic to Amoxicillin, the likelihood of being allergic to Penicillin is also very high.
It is not recommended to use it, and you may consider other types of antibiotics.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2021/10/07

More Info

When it comes to medication allergies, particularly with antibiotics like Amoxicillin, it is crucial to understand the relationship between different classes of drugs and the potential for cross-reactivity. In your case, you have a known allergy to Penicillin, which is a type of beta-lactam antibiotic. Amoxicillin is also a beta-lactam antibiotic and is chemically similar to Penicillin. Therefore, if you have a documented allergy to Penicillin, there is a significant risk that you may also be allergic to Amoxicillin.

Allergic reactions to Penicillin can manifest in various ways, including skin reactions such as hives or rashes, respiratory issues like swelling of the throat or difficulty breathing, and even more severe reactions like anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening condition. Given your previous experiences of eye swelling, ear swelling, and rashes, it is advisable to avoid Amoxicillin altogether. The risk of experiencing a similar or even more severe allergic reaction is substantial.

In clinical practice, when a patient reports a Penicillin allergy, healthcare providers typically consider alternative antibiotics that do not belong to the beta-lactam class. Some common alternatives for treating bacterial infections include macrolides (like Azithromycin or Clarithromycin), tetracyclines (like Doxycycline), or fluoroquinolones (like Ciprofloxacin). However, the choice of an alternative antibiotic should be guided by the specific type of infection, the bacteria involved, and the patient's overall health status.

It is also important to communicate your allergy history clearly to all healthcare providers, including pharmacists, to ensure that you are prescribed safe alternatives. If you are ever in doubt about a medication, do not hesitate to ask your doctor or pharmacist for clarification. They can provide valuable information about the medication's composition and potential risks.

In summary, given your allergy to Penicillin, it is highly likely that you could also be allergic to Amoxicillin. It is best to avoid this medication and discuss alternative treatment options with your healthcare provider. Always prioritize your safety by being proactive about your allergies and ensuring that your medical history is well-documented and communicated.

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