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Symptoms of a Penicillan Allergy

You can have an allergic reaction to a medication, even if you've taken it in the past, so it's always best to be prepared. A medication allergy occurs when your body overreacts to a medication, such as penicillin.

A penicillin allergy can be inconvenient or even life-threatening. It's important to know the symptoms of an allergic reaction before taking penicillin, so that you are able to recognize and treat a reaction if it occurs.

  1. Types of Allergic Reactions

    • A penicillin allergy can manifest itself in a variety of ways. If you're allergic to penicillin, you may have hives, itchy watery eyes or swollen mucous membranes. You might also develop swelling in your face or hands.

      Some people, however, have even more severe reactions to penicillin--including the inability to breathe due to the swelling of the throat, a condition known as anaphylaxis. This condition can develop suddenly, and is life-threatening. However, if you have previously developed hives after taking the drug, you're unlikely to develop anaphylaxis in the future.

    Treatment

    • If you experience a mild allergic reaction to penicillin, such as hives or swelling of the hands, consult your doctor as soon as possible. These reactions, while uncomfortable, are not life-threatening. Your doctor may recommend that you take an over-the-counter antihistamine, such as Benadryl. This will control the swelling or itching until you can see your health care provider.

    Emergency Treatment

    • If you experience severe swelling, difficulty breathing or hives over a large portion of your body, call 911. An epinephrine shot may be necessary to stop the reaction. It can be administered at the emergency room of a hospital. Antihistamines also can be administered intravenously if necessary.

    Considerations

    • If you know that you have severe reactions to medications, it may be helpful to purchase an Epi-pen and keep it on hand. This portable epinephrine shot can be self-administered, and may help to prevent a fatal allergic reaction. If you think this may be helpful, ask your doctor for an Epi-pen prescription.

    Prevention/Solution

    • It may be possible to lower the chance of a penicillin reaction through a process known as desensitization. Using this technique, doctors gradually administer a small amount of the drug. Over time, they increase this dosage in small increments, which allows the patient's body to build up a tolerance to penicillin.

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