What are the side effects of penicillins?
The most common side effects are mild diarrhea, headache, vaginal itching and discharge, sore mouth or tongue, or white patches in the mouth or on the tongue. These problems usually go away as the body adjusts to the drug and do not require medical treatment unless they continue or they are bothersome. More serious side effects are not common, but may occur. If any of the following side effects occur, get emergency medical help immediately: • breathing problems, such as shortness of breath or fast or irregular breathing • fever • sudden lightheadedness or faintness • joint pain • skin rash, hives, itching, or red, scaly skin • swelling or puffiness in the face Other rare side effects may occur. Anyone who has unusual symptoms after taking penicillin should get in touch with his or her physician. Source: The Gale Group.
