eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

How To

How To Treat an Allergic Reaction to Amoxicillin

Contributor
By Erica Roth
eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic in the penicillin family and is widely used to treat a variety of conditions, including ear and sinus infections. As with any other medication, sometimes a person will have an allergic reaction to amoxicillin. The severity and nature of the symptoms will determine how to treat an allergic reaction to amoxicillin.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Antihistamine
  1. Step 1

    Recognize the symptoms that are common in people who are allergic to amoxicillin and other penicillin drugs. The Mayo Clinic lists symptoms that vary in degree, from a rash, hives and minor swelling of the lips, to more severe, life-threatening signs of anaphylaxis (see Resources). Anaphylaxis reactions include difficulty breathing from the throat closing up, a rapid heartbeat and dizziness.

  2. Step 2

    Stop taking amoxicillin if you are experiencing any allergy symptoms, no matter how minor they may seem. If your infection is still present, call your doctor to get a prescription for another drug.

  3. Step 3

    Treat the itching from hives or a rash by taking an over-the-counter antihistamine, such as Benadryl. Use the antihistamine as directed by your doctor or according to the packaging label.

  4. Step 4

    Get immediate medical attention if you or a family member exhibits signs of an anaphylactic reaction that may be related to taking amoxicillin. Call your local emergency number or head directly to the emergency room of the closest hospital. In many cases, a shot of epinepherine helps to stop the allergic reaction.

Tips & Warnings
  • If you have had an allergic reaction to amoxicillin in the past, make sure your doctor and your pharmacy know about it. Most medical care providers will not prescribe any type of penicillin drug for you in the future, to avoid a similar reaction.

Post a Comment

Post a Comment
  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This

Related Ads

Get Free Health Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License.

Live Strong Partner
Livestrong_eHow Health