How long does it take for an allergic reaction?

Question

I am allergic to erythromycin. My doc prescribed the Z-pak, family member of erythromycin. He states it is not a derivitive of erythromycin. I almost died taking erythromycin. I just took a dose, how long would it take for an allergic reaction to it,
He is pretty sure I won't get one. I am just curious.

Answer 1

Z-Pak contains capsules which hold a drug called azithromycin, an antibiotic in the same family of drugs as erythromycin called macrolides. There is a clear warning that people who have had previous allergic reactions to erythromycin should not take azithromycin.

Depending on how serious your priro reaction was, you may want to be ready to bolt to the hospital. You can also take a benedryl right now which will limit the severity of any reaction that may happen.

I would call the doctor and ask for another antibiotic. I would also call the pharmacy to ask them to put a note on your chart indicating that you are allergice to erythromycin.

Here is the address for the official zithromax website.

http://www.zithromax.com/html/zith_zpak.htm

Good luck.

Answer 2

From instantanious to within the hour. I find your doctor's choice somewhat disturbing. And I hope he's watching closely! If not, get a new doctor- one who will pay attention.