• Knowledgebase: Information on Specific Illnesses

    Here you will find discussions of specific illnesses and their management.

    5. rash all over on antibiotic - Top

    Question: My one-year old has had a rash all over her body from the Omnicef. It didn't start until toward the end of the cycle. She has been off of it for 5 days. When will the rash go away? It doesn't look like it's getting better. I am getting worried.

    Answer: Since rashes are very common and can be caused by many things, it is very hard to know if a rash that occurs while on an antibiotic is even caused by the antibiotic. Many children are given an antibiotic during a febrile illness, which could be viral, and many viral illnesses end in a rash, such as Fifth Disease and Roseola to name only two.

    If the rash is determined to be due to the antibiotic, the rash should go away over a week or less in most cases. There are some severe antibiotic rashes which may include severe bloodshot eyes, swollen lips, and a severe rash (Stevens-Johnson Syndrome). It is usually safe to take an antihistimine such as Benedryl which may help the rash somewhat.

    If there is a history of tick bite, a physician should always see the rash. - Updated: September 25, 2002

    [e-Mail me the Knowledgebase]-   [Search our Knowledgebase] -  [Question Not Answered?]    


    • James L Horwitz, MD

    David C. Thomas, MD

    Barbara Lindberg, PNP