Penicillin allergies often present with a number of distressing reactions such as hives, rashes, pruritis, wheezing, and swelling of the lips, tongue or face. Severe anaphylaxis can be deadly. Some warning signs of anaphylaxis include low blood pressure, faint pulse rate, constricted airways, lightheadedness, red skin, hives, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Medical management varies depending on how severe the allergy is.
Treatments for allergic reactions include bronchodilators, which can help restore normal breathing and wheezing by expanding the airways. Corticosteroids may be helpful in reducing inflammation and may also be taken as a prophylactic. For severe reactions, epinephrine, a form of adrenaline, should be injected to help the airways remain open and keep you alive until you reach the hospital. Antihistamines such as Benadryl can fight off histamines, substances that are released by the immune system during allergic reactions. These medications may be sufficient for managing mild or moderate allergic reactions. Antihistamines can be ingested in pill form or they can be taken by IV.
Desensitization is another treatment option. During the desensitization process, low doses of penicillin are injected into the patient. The amount is gradually increased until the patient develops a tolerance to penicillin. A number of individuals may suffer from side effects as a result. However, some individuals may have an intolerance rather than an allergy to penicillin. Physicians will usually perform skin tests to verify an allergy. If you are allergic, avoiding penicillin is the best treatment.
To prevent unintentional exposure to penicillin, you should inform the pharmacy staff of your allergy and ask if the drug is related to the penicillin family every time you get a prescription filled. Amoxicillin, ampicillin, dicloxacillin, nafcillin, penicillin V, and penicillin G are some of the medications in the penicillin family. You should wear a Medic Alert bracelet at all times, as you will not be able to inform emergency workers or medical personnel of your allergy if you are unconscious. To ensure proper treatment, make sure your physician, hospital and local pharmacy have your medical information on file.
