How long does it take for a pre-op IV antibiotic to leave my system

[rrnettie]

I had a foot surgery and was given an IV antibiotic pre-op. I believe I’m having an allergic reaction to it. How long does it take to get out of my system?

[specialmom]

The half life of IV antibiotics is fairly short which means it should wash out of your system relatively quickly.  Rash is a common side effect for antibiotics for sure.  Since it was a pre op IV antibiotic you are on, I assume you are no longer on antibiotics or did they give you one post operatively as well?  You've narrowed this down to the pre op meds?  A rash is usually considered an allergic reaction to the antibiotic.  Stopping it is generally recommended but I would certainly check in with the prescribing doctor prior to doing that.  In fact, that would be what I'd do now if you still have this rash.  The doctor who performed the surgery should have an on call number to call and let them know.  Was it an outpatient surgery?  I'm just wondering when the rash appeared.  Doctors can give you medicine to alleviate the rash if it is an allergic reaction.  Anyway, sorry this happened!

[specialmom]

And I know you said it was from your IV antibiotic which means you stopped that already.  So, it appeared after you left the hospital?  Call your doctor for guidance and possible desensitizing treatment but the antibiotic should be out of your system depending on when the surgery was.

[rrnettie]

Yes, it was a rash. And...face and throat red and burning hot and itching all over and hives. It got better post op day 2 but started again that night but not as bad. Since then it’s kind of like random flare-ups that are shorter and milder. Thx for the reply. Appreciated.

[specialmom]

So, call your doctor.  Allergic rashes to antibiotics can start after just as yours did.  The doctor can recommend antihistamines, steroids or this process of desensitizing which involves giving you small doses of the antibiotic again (weird but a strategy used).  This is again common--- things like Benadryl over the counter is an antihistamine but I'd feel better if you sought the guidance of a doctor.  And definitely find out what medication it was, but know that the class of cephalasporins are all likely going to cause the same kind of reaction.  You'll want your medical records noted with this.  good luck

[rrnettie]

Thank you

[purple1234567]

Do you know what antibiotic was given to you?  What symptoms are you having?  

[rrnettie]

I don’t remember. I’m going to ask at post op visit tomorrow I do know it is in the cephalosporin family. :)