Amoxicillin Concerns
Age: 20 years Gender: Female Height: 5 feet 8 inches Weight: 74 kg Ethnicity: White British/Irish Hello, I have recently been prescribed amoxicillin for a duration of 15 days to treat a persistent cough. However, I need to address a concern regarding my boyfriend, who has a known allergy to penicillin. Although it hasn’t been conclusively verified, he experienced a serious reaction as an infant after taking a penicillin-containing medication, which caused him to turn blue, leading to a lifelong avoidance of penicillin. Is it safe for us to kiss, whether it’s just a quick peck or more intimate? Thank you for your guidance.
Answers (1)
7/17/2025, 1:01:57 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your concerns about kissing your boyfriend while you're on amoxicillin, especially given his known allergy to penicillin, are completely valid. Here are the key points to consider:
Summary: Amoxicillin is a type of penicillin, and while it’s typically safe to be around someone with a penicillin allergy, caution is advised when it comes to intimate contact like kissing, especially if there's a history of severe allergic reactions.
Explanation:
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Penicillin and Amoxicillin: Amoxicillin is a member of the penicillin family of antibiotics. If your boyfriend has a severe allergy to penicillin, there is a possibility that he could react to amoxicillin as well, especially if he has experienced anaphylaxis in the past.
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Risk of Transfer: While the amount of medication that could transfer through saliva during kissing is tiny, it is still potentially concerning if he has had a serious allergic reaction in the past.
Next Steps:
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Avoid Kissing: Until you confirm with a healthcare provider, it might be best to avoid kissing and intimate contact to prevent any risk of an allergic reaction.
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Communicate with Your Boyfriend: Ensure your boyfriend is aware of the situation, and discuss your concerns together. It's essential that he feels comfortable and informed.
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Monitor for Symptoms: If your boyfriend does decide to be close to you, he should be vigilant for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling. If any symptoms occur, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
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Consult Healthcare Providers: You and your boyfriend may benefit from consulting an allergist to discuss his penicillin allergy and the specifics regarding amoxicillin.
By taking these precautions, you can help ensure both your and your boyfriend's safety. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any more questions or need further assistance!
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