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Article: Penicillin Allergy; New Hemophilia Drug
- Article from:
- The Washington Post
- Article date:
- February 9, 1988
- Author:
CopyrightThis material is published under license from the Washington Post. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Washington Post. (Hide copyright information)
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Q. Is it possible to develop sensitivity to penicillin drugs
(like ampicillin) over time? I'm 32 years old and have had many
bouts of tonsillitis. My doctor always treated me with penicillin in
the past and I never had any problem with it.
During the past year, whenever I've taken any form of penicillin,
I've suffered with side effects including stomach cramps, diarrhea
and what seems to be a bowel infection.
Can I become allergic to penicillin after years of using it
without any difficulties? Should I not take penicillin again in the
future?
A. Your question really addresses several complications of using
penicillin, or most antibiotics for that matter. I'll discuss these
problems one ...