What is a major side effect of taking Penicillin?

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur in response to Penicillin. It is characterized by symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat and tongue, hives, and a rapid drop in blood pressure, which can be fatal if not treated immediately. The reason this side effect is considered major is due to its acute nature and the necessity for prompt medical intervention, often requiring the administration of epinephrine to counteract the reaction.

While nausea, rash, and dizziness are also possible side effects of Penicillin, they are generally less severe compared to anaphylaxis. Nausea is a more common gastrointestinal reaction and, while bothersome, is typically not life-threatening. Rash can indicate a mild allergic reaction but does not always escalate to anaphylaxis. Dizziness might be a result of other factors but does not represent the critical emergency that anaphylaxis does. Recognizing the signs of anaphylaxis is crucial for the safe administration of Penicillin and for protecting patient safety.