Pharmacology · single question

Which of the following is the most common allergic reaction to penicillin?

  1. Nausea and vomiting
  2. Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS)
  3. Urticarial rash
  4. Dry mouth (xerostomia)
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Urticarial rash

The most common manifestation of penicillin allergy is a maculopapular or urticarial rash (hives), occurring in approximately 1 to 5% of patients. It is typically a delayed (Type IV) or IgE-mediated (Type I) hypersensitivity reaction. Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a severe, life-threatening mucocutaneous reaction but is RARE (less than 1 in 10,000 exposures), not the most common reaction. Nausea and vomiting are gastrointestinal side effects (not allergic reactions). Dry mouth is not a typical penicillin reaction. Patients with a history of SJS or toxic epidermal necrolysis should NEVER receive penicillin again. The most common = rash; the most severe = anaphylaxis or SJS.

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