Nonsevere and Severe Allergic Reactions

• Nonsevere symptoms include hives or pruritic (itchy) rashes.
• Severe symptoms include anaphylaxis, angioedema, throat tightening, wheezing plus shock, airway compromise, or cardiovascular collapse. Cardiac collapse requires intervention (eg, epinephrine, corticosteroids, vasopressors).

Note: Side effects such as vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea are nonallergic. Also see Is it Really a Penicillin Allergy? and antibiotic allergy resources included in this EQIPP course for more information about antibiotic allergies.