#1 ·
My mother was given some Cephalins, but she has a severe penicillin allergy. I'm wondering if it's safe for her to take this?
Cephalins
Started by Michael Anderson10 · · 👁 4 views · 6 replies
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#2 ·
Michael Anderson10 said:My mother was given some Cephalins, but she has a severe penicillin allergy. I'm wondering if it's safe for her to take this?
That's a tricky one. Honestly, back in the day, doctors used to go overboard worrying about "cross-reactivity" between penicillin and cephalosporins. Generally speaking, Cephalosporin II. and III. generations are considered safe bets in those cases.
Cephalexin is a first-generation drug. While it's usually the go-to choice for people allergic to penicillin, there's still a 5-10% chance of cross-reactivity in patients with severe penicillin hypersensitivity—we're talking serious stuff like anaphylaxis, hives, or interstitial nephritis. It happens because of a specific chemical group that's identical in both.
Seriously though, talk to a doctor first!
By the way, did the doc who wrote the prescription even ask about her allergies?
#3 ·
I suppose a doctor would know for certain, but from what I've read, Cephalins seem quite similar to penicillin. Since she suffered an anaphylactic shock from penicillin, that's why I'm asking.
#4 ·
I honestly don't get why the doctor didn't go with a macrolide if we're dealing with a penicillin allergy?
#5 ·
Michael Anderson10 said:I suppose a doctor would know for certain, but from what I've read, Cephalins seem quite similar to penicillin. Since she suffered an anaphylactic shock from penicillin, that's why I'm asking.
Look, my advice? Sit down with that doctor and lay out exactly why you're worried. There’s just no reason to take an unnecessary risk, especially when there are other options available—and with Cephalosporin II., there's a legitimate danger here.
What’s she even taking the antibiotic for? For most things, there's always an alternative.
#6 ·
Just one quick question. I’m a larger guy, and I’ve been taking two Cephalins a day. It’s been about 35 hours since my last dose, and I wanted to know if it's safe to start taking them again after this much time without any serious issues.