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Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
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Ampicillin or Amoxicillin Rash

DESCRIPTION

  • pink or red spots
  • small, flat, nonitchy spots
  • always on the trunk
  • may spread to the face
  • occurs while child is taking ampicillin or amoxicillin
  • usually appears on the 5th day after a child starts taking ampicillin or amoxicillin but may show earlier or as late as the 16th day.

CAUSE

From 5% to 10% of children taking ampicillin or amoxicillin get a skin rash. This is a harmless rash and does not indicate an allergy to ampicillin, amoxicillin, or other penicillin drugs.

EXPECTED COURSE

The rash usually lasts 3 days, with a range of 1 to 6 days.

HOME CARE

No treatment is necessary. Keep your child on the ampicillin or amoxicillin until it is gone. The rash will disappear just as quickly whether or not your child continues the medication. Your child can take ampicillin or amoxicillin in the future when necessary and probably won't get a rash the next time.

CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN DURING OFFICE HOURS IF:

  • The rash changes to hives.
  • The rash becomes itchy.
  • The rash lasts more than 6 days.
  • You have other concerns or questions.

Written by B.D. Schmitt, M.D., author of "Your Child's Health," Bantam Books.
Copyright 1999 Clinical Reference Systems