Concerns About Amoxicillin Allergy and Intimacy: Seeking Guidance
Greetings to the medical community and knowledgeable individuals on Reddit. I have a concern I hope to clarify. My boyfriend began taking amoxicillin-clavulanate for a sinus infection, and I remember having an allergic reaction to amoxicillin when I was very young, which resulted in hives and a trip to the emergency room, though I recovered without complications. Now, I'm contemplating whether it’s safe for me to engage in kissing or any sexual activities that involve contact with his bodily fluids while he’s on this medication. I came across a reference from the NIH indicating that a woman had an anaphylactic response to amoxicillin, although it also mentioned that such cases are quite uncommon. Any insight would be greatly appreciated!
Answers (1)
3/21/2025, 6:00:47 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great that you're seeking clarity about your concerns regarding amoxicillin and intimacy. Given your history of an allergic reaction to amoxicillin, it's wise to be cautious. Here are the main points to consider:
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Understanding Allergies: Allergic reactions to medications like amoxicillin can lead to symptoms such as hives, swelling, or in rare cases, anaphylaxis. Since you’ve previously experienced hives from amoxicillin, there's a potential risk for you to react again, especially if you come into contact with the medication in any way.
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Risk with Bodily Fluids: Amoxicillin can be present in bodily fluids, although it is generally at lower concentrations. Kissing or engaging in sexual activities may expose you to his saliva or fluids that could potentially contain traces of the medication, though serious reactions through this route are uncommon.
Next Steps:
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Avoid Direct Contact: To minimize any risk, you may want to avoid kissing or intimate contact while he is on the medication.
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Discuss Concerns: It's beneficial for you and your boyfriend to discuss your concerns openly. He might consider speaking with his healthcare provider for guidance on medication use and any possible precautions.
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Monitor Symptoms: If you do engage in any contact, be vigilant for any allergy symptoms like hives, swelling, or breathing difficulties. If you notice any concerning symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
It's completely reasonable to prioritize your health and safety in this situation. If you have ongoing concerns about allergies or medications, consider keeping a close dialogue with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. Don't hesitate to reach out for support if needed!
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