Allergic reaction to amoxicillin how long does it last

This is a very common question. About 5-10 percent of children taking amoxicillin or Augmentin (which contains amoxicillin) will have a skin rash at some point while taking the medicine. Most of these rashes are because of viruses, not an allergic reaction (non-allergic).

A non-allergic rash typically has small spots, less than half an inch. They are in a symmetrical, widespread pattern that is sometimes raised. The rash usually appears five to seven days after starting amoxicillin. It typically appears on the chest, abdomen, back, and face. This type of rash usually goes away in three days but can last one to six days and it is not contagious.

Hives from an allergic immune reaction are very itchy, raised, and can change locations. These rashes usually last a week or longer. Hives would commonly be seen with a classic penicillin allergy reaction. Amoxicillin is an antibiotic in the penicillin family. Swelling can happen about half of the time. This can involve swelling of the skin, lips, and airway, which can cause concern. Also, these reactions can be very serious, and some cases can develop into anaphylaxis. This is a severe allergic reaction.

Learn more about drug allergies.

Allergic reaction to amoxicillin how long does it last

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Allergic reaction to amoxicillin how long does it last
Written by Jennifer Nelson

Allergic reaction to amoxicillin how long does it last

Jennifer is a contributing health writer who has been researching and writing health content with PlushCare for 3 years. She is passionate about bringing accessible healthcare and mental health services to people everywhere.

Allergic reaction to amoxicillin how long does it last
Reviewed by: Dr. Maria Glukhovsky

Allergic reaction to amoxicillin how long does it last

Dr. Maria Glukhovsky, Pharm.D. has been a pharmacist for the past 12 years, clinical educator across many disease states and a clinical instructor at Jefferson School of Pharmacy. She loves to educate her patients and everyone around her on the proper use of medications and top disease management techniques to improve health and wellbeing.

March 30, 2021 Read Time - 5 minutes

Amoxicillin Rash: Signs, Side Effects, and Treatment

Can amoxicillin cause a rash? While most antibiotics have the potential to cause a rash, amoxicillin is more likely than most antibiotics to cause a rash. 

Keep reading to find out more about what you can do if you experience an amoxicillin rash.



What Is Amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic in the penicillin family, and penicillin is a medication that many people are sensitive to.

What Is the Most Common Side Effect of Amoxicillin?

The most common side effects of amoxicillin include:

  • Rash
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Changes in taste
  • Hives
  • Itching
  • Trouble breathing or swallowing
  • Swelling of the throat, lips, face, tongue, or eyes
  • Vaginal infection
  • Thrush
  • Fever

What Are the Signs of an Allergic Reaction to Amoxicillin?

Signs of an allergic reaction to amoxicillin include:

  • Swelling of the throat, lips, face, tongue, or eyes
  • Hives
  • Trouble breathing

Amoxicillin Precautions

Despite its tendency to cause rashes, amoxicillin is generally safe. It is not right for everyone,  and there are several factors you should keep in mind before taking it.

Antibiotics like amoxicillin can make hormonal birth control less effective. Talk to your doctor about whether you should use backup contraception such as condoms or a diaphragm.

Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, pregnant, or may become pregnant.

Always tell your doctor about your medical history and any medications you take. Especially be sure to mention if you have ever had:

  • Kidney disease
  • Diarrhea caused by antibiotics
  • Mononucleosis (also called “mono”)
  • Food or drug allergies (especially to a cephalosporin antibiotic like Omnicef, Keflex, Cefzil, Ceftin, and others)

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does an Amoxicillin Rash Look Like?

An amoxicillin rash looks like flat, red patches on the skin (as opposed to hives, which are raised, itchy, red or white bumps). There are also usually smaller, paler patches along with the red patches. 

An amoxicillin rash typically appears 3-10 days after starting amoxicillin, whereas hives caused by an allergic reaction to amoxicillin usually appear after the first or second dose.

How Do You Treat an Amoxicillin Rash?

Benadryl, an over-the-counter antihistamine, can help ease the itching of an amoxicillin rash or hives caused by an allergic reaction to amoxicillin. You should also talk to a doctor right away about whether or not to continue taking amoxicillin. Besure to ask your doctor if Benadryl is safe to take and tell your doctor about any prescription medications or over-the-counter medications you are taking.

Generally, you do not want to stop taking an antibiotic until you have taken the full course of treatment. However, allergic reactions can be serious and potentially fatal, so it is best to talk to a doctor if you develop a rash after taking amoxicillin.

How Long Does it Take for an Amoxicillin Rash to Go Away?

An amoxicillin rash usually clears up within a few days. If your rash does not go away after more than a few days, talk to your doctor.

Should You Stop Amoxicillin After a Rash?

It is best to talk to a doctor right away. Stopping antibiotics can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, but continuing to take amoxicillin if you are having a true allergic reaction could be dangerous. A doctor can tell you whether to continue taking the medication, or they can switch you to a different antibiotic.

Unless instructed otherwise (or you are having a serious allergic reaction), always take every antibiotic pill your doctor prescribes, even if you start feeling better or your symptoms go away. Failing to do so can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and make it harder for you to fight off future infections.

When Should I Go to the Doctor for a Rash?

It is never a bad idea to talk to a doctor about your rash, but you should definitely seek medical attention if:

  • You have a fever
  • The rash is spreading
  • A rash covers your whole body
  • Your rash includes pus (a thick liquid that indicates infection)
  • The rash does not go away after a few days
  • You are experiencing additional symptoms

  • Book on our free mobile app or website.

    Our doctors operate in all 50 states and same day appointments are available every 15 minutes.

  • See a doctor, get treatment and a prescription at your local pharmacy.

  • Use your health insurance just like you normally would to see your doctor.

Allergic reaction to amoxicillin how long does it last

Talk to a Doctor About an Amoxicillin Rash

If you have an amoxicillin rash, you should talk to a doctor right away about whether to keep taking the medication or not. They may switch you to a different antibiotic, and they may be able to tell you whether you are experiencing a harmless amoxicillin rash or a potentially dangerous allergic reaction.

You do not have to go into your doctor’s office just for a rash. You can have an online video appointment with one of the licensed doctors at PlushCare. 

  • You will show the online doctor the rash, tell them when it started, discuss your medical history (including why you were prescribed amoxicillin), and talk about any medications you take. 
  • If appropriate, the physician can electronically send a prescription to your pharmacy for a different antibiotic or a topical medication to help reduce the itching.

To get started with PlushCare, click here. You can schedule an appointment at a convenient time and find out what to do about your amoxicillin rash.


Read More About Amoxicillin Rashes

  • Get Rash Treatment Online
  • Common Side Effects of Antibiotics
  • What’s My Rash?

Most PlushCare articles are reviewed by M.D.s, Ph.Ds, N.P.s, nutritionists and other healthcare professionals. Click here to learn more and meet some of the professionals behind our blog. The PlushCare blog, or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment. For more information click here.

Allergic reaction to amoxicillin how long does it last

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More to learn.

How long does an allergic reaction to amoxicillin last?

Treatment of an ampicillin or amoxicillin rash Hives usually disappear within hours. A maculopapular rash may take one to two weeks to go away and may get worse for a few days once the drug is stopped. General treatment recommendations include: stopping the medication.

How do you treat an allergic reaction to amoxicillin?

Antihistamines. Your doctor may prescribe an antihistamine or recommend an over-the-counter antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) that can block immune system chemicals activated during an allergic reaction. Corticosteroids.

How long does it take for an allergic reaction from antibiotics to go away?

The rash is not contagious and usually begins to fade after 3 days but may take up to 6 days to disappear. People taking amoxicillin may also develop hives. Hives appear as raised, red bumps that can come and go and change location and are usually very itchy.

How do I know if I'm having an allergic reaction to amoxicillin?

These symptoms can include trouble breathing, hives, and swelling of your tongue and throat. If you have hives, stop taking the drug and call your doctor. If you have swelling or trouble breathing, stop taking the drug and call 911 right away.