What Could Cause A Rash On The Chest While On Amoxicillin For Sinus Infection?

Posted on Tue, 5 Apr 2022

Question: My 17 year old son has a sinus infection is taking amoxicillin and got a slight rash on his chest. I would like him to finish the course of antibiotics. He plays football, this is his senior-year and he wants to play and not be sidelined. What would you do? I am completing info based on him.

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Possible Allergy to Amoxicilin

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Development of skin rash following Amoxicillin intake is suggestive of a possible allergy to the medication. In patients who develop an allergic reaction to Amoxicillin, the underlying infection can be managed by switching to Erythromycin.
Erythromycin is also a very effective antibiotic that helps clear up the sinus infection. Taking Erythromycin will not affect his ability to participate in sports in any way.

I understand that he is weaning off allergy meds. However, taking Cetirizine 10 mg at bedtime for few days (less than a week) will not affect the weaning process. So he can safely take Cetirizine if the rash does not subside with discontinuing Amoxicillin alone. It is important to avoid multiple anti-histamine(anti-allergy) medication use at the same time. Use only one anti-allergy medicine of choice at a time.

Please be advised that Amoxicillin is not discontinued until you talk to his treating physician. You can contact his doctor to discuss the possibility of allergy and see switching to the alternate antibiotic is right for your son.

Hope this answers your query. Please let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Lekshmi

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj