From the Guidelines
If you experienced vomiting with cephalexin, amoxicillin is generally a reasonable alternative for treating strep throat, as it is a different beta-lactam antibiotic with a similar mechanism of action but a different side effect profile 1.
Key Considerations
- Amoxicillin is typically prescribed at 50 mg/kg once daily (max = 1000 mg) for 10 days for streptococcal pharyngitis, as recommended by the Infectious Diseases Society of America 1.
- This medication works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, which is a different mechanism than cephalexin, though both are beta-lactam antibiotics.
- Some people who react poorly to one antibiotic may tolerate another in the same class, but there is a small risk of cross-reactivity.
Administration and Monitoring
- If you start amoxicillin, take it with food to minimize stomach upset, and complete the full course even if symptoms improve quickly.
- If vomiting occurs with amoxicillin as well, contact your healthcare provider immediately as you may need a non-beta-lactam alternative such as azithromycin or clindamycin.
Importance of Treatment
- Untreated strep throat can lead to serious complications like rheumatic fever, so appropriate antibiotic treatment is important 1.
Alternative Options
- If amoxicillin is not tolerated, other alternatives such as azithromycin or clindamycin may be considered, depending on the patient's allergy history and the specific circumstances of the case 1.
From the Research
Repeated Vomiting with Cephalexin and Amoxicillin for Streptococcal Pharyngitis
- If someone experienced repeated vomiting while taking cephalexin, it may be due to the antibiotic itself or an underlying condition 2.
- Amoxicillin can be considered as an alternative for treating streptococcal pharyngitis, but its effectiveness and safety depend on various factors, including the patient's medical history and the severity of the infection 3, 4.
- Studies have shown that amoxicillin is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea 5, 6.
- The decision to switch to amoxicillin should be made under the guidance of a healthcare professional, taking into account the patient's individual needs and medical history.
Comparison of Antibiotics for Streptococcal Pharyngitis
- Cephalosporins, such as cephalexin, have been shown to be effective in treating streptococcal pharyngitis, but their use may be limited by adverse effects and resistance 2, 3.
- Macrolides, such as azithromycin, are also effective, but their use may be associated with a higher risk of adverse effects and resistance 4, 5.
- Penicillin, including amoxicillin, remains a commonly used and effective treatment for streptococcal pharyngitis, but its use may be limited by resistance and adverse effects 2, 5, 6.
Considerations for Antibiotic Treatment
- The choice of antibiotic should be based on the patient's medical history, the severity of the infection, and the risk of adverse effects and resistance 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Antibiotic treatment should be guided by clinical guidelines and evidence-based recommendations to minimize unnecessary use and reduce the risk of resistance 5, 6.
- Patients should be educated on the proper use of antibiotics, including completing the full course of treatment and reporting any adverse effects to their healthcare provider 5, 6.