allergy to amoxicillin by touch

I have severe allergies to most antibiotics.  Lately, I've been giving amoxicillin to my children, and I'm having a reaction.  Is this possible just by touching it?  The allergy has the symptoms of serum sickness:  I have red welts appearing and disappearing on my hands and feet, and the knuckles on my right hand feel stiff.  Can I wait it out, or do I need to see a Dr.?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

It seems that you have had a serious allergic reaction to the antibiotics.Hives may appear on the body even by touch in cases of serious allergic reactions.Take some antihistaminic like benadryl or Claritin.They are available over the counter and will help in relieving hives.However benadryl may cause drowsiness.If the symptoms persist then you may need oral steroids which are available only on prescription.Sometimes these drugs have to be taken for a longer time period.

Hope it helps.Take care and regards.