Penicillin Allergy

If you have a Penicillin Allergy then you suffer from allergies Type 1 what is also called Contact Allergies.  The immune system overreacts to the beta-lactam molecule found in penicillin.  Why the immune system thinks this molecule is harmful to the body is not very well understood and more testing is needed.

The overuse of the penicillin 40 years ago for bacterial infections resulted in an increased frequency of allergic reactions to the drug and also created what is known as antibiotic resistance bacterium.  Penicillin and Amoxicillin were routinely given for bacterial infections such as ear infections, sinus and upper respiratory infections.  Different types of penicillin such as Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, Dicloxacillin, Nafcillin, Penicillin V, and Penicillin G were given to target different infections.

Since then many new dugs have been developed to treat bacterial infections and a true allergy to penicillin should not be a problem when treating for infections.  Penicillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic while Amoxicillin is an amino antibiotic.  Children may be allergic to Penicillin but may not be allergic to Amoxicillin or visa versa, however care must be taken when using a related type of penicillin for anyone who has reported a history of allergic reaction to penicillin.   It is recommended that an alternative class of antibiotic be prescribed.

Some types of penicillin will cause reactions that are not normally associated with allergies to penicillin.  They include dark or amber colored urine, yellow eyes or skin, and pale stools.  If you notice any of these symptoms after taking any antibiotic you should notify you doctor immediately.  If you are allergic to penicillin, reactions on rare occasions may cause severe stomach cramps, bloating, vomiting, seizures, pain, unusually bleeding or bruising, or bloody diarrhea and should be treated as quickly as possible.

Testing for allergies to penicillin are usually performed with a skin test.  The skin is scratched or injected with a small amount of penicillin usually on the forearm or back.  If you are allergic to penicillin you will develop a red, raised bump and possibility hives.  Only specialized allergy centers are able to perform skin test.

Treatments for allergic reactions include antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to relieve the itching and rash.  More severe reactions will require treatment with an oral or injected corticosteroid.  For life a threatening emergencies then injection of epinephrine administrated at a hospital.

If you are allergic to penicillin then it is best to avoid penicillin and similar antibiotics.  Tell you doctor about you allergy and he will give you antibodies that are completely unrelated to penicillin.

If you have any type of allergy then you should wear a medical alert bracelet that describes your allergy.  These items are available over the counter at most drugstores.... Penicillin Allergy ...Continue