DEAR DR. GOTT: What makes a person suddenly experience a severe reaction to penicillin? I was recently prescribed Augmentin (which I had been prescribed successfully six months earlier) and had a severe reaction within 20 minutes of taking it. My hands started itching and became red, my lips swelled and I kept blacking out. That was following by diarrhea and vomiting. I was home alone and so weak that I could not get to the phone to call 911. Luckily I could reach my Benadryl and was able to take two pills. I immediately began to feel better. I know that I am fortunate to be alive to write this letter. What I don’t understand is why I suddenly experienced an allergic reaction. And, a warning to everyone – do not take any medication if you are home alone!
DEAR READER: Before I get into your question, I would like to say given the description of your reaction, I believe you are extremely lucky to be alive. You were likely on the verge of a full-blown anaphylactic reaction which is the most severe and life-threatening type. The Benadryl (diphenhydramine) you took probably reduced the reaction and saved your life.
Now, to your question. Allergic reactions of any sort can occur at any time, even if the culprit is a previously tolerated substance – be it a medication, scent, pollen, food or otherwise. I cannot tell you why your body reacted so poorly to the antibiotic this time when you had taken it only a few months prior without complications. That said, it is now important that this reaction be relayed to any and all of your physicians and noted in your medical chart(s). You should also avoid future consumption of penicillin and penicillin-based antibiotics. While you may not react similarly (or at all) again, you are more likely to experience an over-reaction or strong reaction.
I also suggest that you speak with your doctor about what to do should you accidentally take penicillin and what you may potentially experience. This can then be shared with loved ones should the event occur while you are with them so that they can aid you quickly and efficiently.
If you are home alone and need to take your medication or are starting a new drug, do so in as controlled a situation as possible. For example, sit on the floor or on a low chair or couch to prevent injury should you react badly and fall. If you have a portable or cellular phone, place it in an easily accessible location. Put a dose of liquid diphenhydramine which will be easier to swallow and will act more quickly than pills next to you. Allergic reactions to medications are uncommon, but given the sheer numbers of individuals taking one or more medications daily, there are a substantial number reported. So while these steps may seem overkill, they may save your life.
Readers who are interested in learning more can order my Health Report “Allergies” by sending a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and a $2 US check or money order to Dr. Peter Gott, PO Box 433, Lakeville, CT 06039. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form from my website, www.AskDrGottMD.com.
