Direct adverse effects
Always check if a patient has a history of adverse drug reactions before prescribing an antimicrobial.
Adverse drug reactions to antimicrobials are most commonly non–immune-mediated, pharmacologically predictable reactions (eg nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea) or immune-mediated nonsevere delayed reactions (eg maculopapular rash). Occasionally the reaction is a severe or life-threatening immune-mediated hypersensitivity reaction. This can be immediate or delayed. For common terminology used when discussing antimicrobial hypersensitivity, see Common terminology used when discussing antimicrobial hypersensitivity.
Note: Always check if a patient has a history of hypersensitivity before prescribing an antimicrobial.
Adverse effects from topical antimicrobials may be localised to the site of application or systemic (due to systemic absorption).