What causes anaphylaxis after taking antibiotics?

Question

Hi doctor,

Yesterday, I had my wisdom tooth extracted and received a prescription for Acetaminophen 300 mg and Codeine 30 mg for pain, as well as Amoxicillin 500 mg to prevent infection. I took one dose of Amoxicillin immediately after leaving the dental office, and I had no reaction for the rest of the day. Later, just before going to sleep, I took another dose of Amoxicillin along with one other Acetaminophen and Codeine.

The next morning, I woke up with an anaphylactic reaction affecting my groin and inner thighs. I am trying to determine whether the reaction was caused by Acetaminophen and Codeine, Amoxicillin, or a combination of the two. Since the pain was manageable, I decided to stop using the medication and am waiting to see if the reaction resolves. I am aware that many people are allergic to this class of antibiotics, and I am wondering if I might be as well, even though I have never had an allergic reaction before. I believe I have taken this class of antibiotics in the past, but I am not certain.

Please suggest.

Answer 1

Hi.

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed your query and understand your health concern.

The allergic reaction is likely due to Amoxicillin, as Acetaminophen and Codeine typically do not cause allergic reactions. I recommend stopping Amoxicillin and considering Cephalosporin as an alternative.

For the allergic reaction, I suggest taking an antihistamine twice daily for three days. Amoxicillin and other drugs in this class are known to commonly cause allergic reactions. Even though you have not experienced such a reaction before, it is possible for it to occur. I advise against using Amoxicillin in the future.

I hope this helps.

Take care.