Penicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic medication that is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It belongs to a class of antibiotics called beta-lactams, which work by inhibiting the bacteria's cell wall synthesis.
Side effects of penicillin can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rashes, and dizziness. Rarely, more serious side effects may occur, such as anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a serious skin reaction), or Clostridium difficile colitis (a potentially life-threatening complication of antibiotic use).
One less common but potential side effect of penicillin is scalp inflammation. This adverse reaction is typically characterized by the development of pustules (small bumps filled with pus) and/or erythema (redness) on the scalp. The exact cause of this reaction is not known, but it is thought to be related to an immune system response to the antibiotic.
If you experience any scalp inflammation after starting penicillin treatment, it is important to inform your doctor so that they can determine whether or not the medication is the cause. In most cases, the inflammation will resolve on its own once the antibiotic is discontinued. However, in some rare cases, treatment with oral or topical steroids may be necessary.
Some people who take the antibiotic penicillin develop a type of rash called "scalp folliculitis." This condition is not dangerous, but it can be itchy and uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are ways to treat scalp folliculitis and relieve its symptoms.
If you develop scalp folliculitis after taking penicillin, talk to your doctor. They can prescribe an antifungal cream or lotion to put on your skin. You may also need to take an oral antifungal medication for a short time.
In most cases, scalp folliculitis goes away quickly with treatment. But it's important to finish all of your medication, even if your symptoms go away. Otherwise, the folliculitis may come back.
Scalp inflammation is a condition where the skin on the scalp becomes red, swollen, and irritated. It can be accompanied by itching, burning, or flaking. In some cases, scalp inflammation may also lead to hair loss.
While scalp inflammation is not a common side effect of penicillin, it has been reported in a small number of cases. If you experience any scalp irritation after starting penicillin, be sure to contact your doctor. In most cases, the inflammation will go away on its own and will not require any treatment.