Scared--Please Help

[lynn]

DS15 started biaxin a week ago at treatment dose. On Saturday he started complaining about joint pain. Today he has a fever of 101-102, headache, slight cough, slight scratchy throat. I took a look at biaxin (clarithromycin) side effects, and saw the Stevens Johnson reaction is a possibility. does anyone know how long after starting biaxin this could occur? Or how long until the rash might start? Or what else this might be? He has no rash now, eyes were red yesterday, but this happens often for him. I am really worried. What would you do?

[justinekno]

We had these symptoms after starting Bactrim. It lasted for about 2-3 days and never happened again. We attributed it to a herx. I'm not familiar enough with Steven Johnson to comment. I am sure others will chime in.

[sf_mom]

I would call your LLMD in the morning if fever persists. We had a similar very high fever 103+ and flue like symptoms that started on day 30 through day 35 when rotated to Rifampin. We did speak with our Dr. and our son was taken off the rifampin. Dr. felt symptoms started as herx but his body didn't like the rifampin and symptoms then escalated.

 

All the symptoms you listed could be a herx response. I would check for fever blisters especially in mouth..... my understanding of Steven Johnson is it starts with the WBC attacking skin surface so you'd see blisters/sores with other symptoms. If you see any sores stop immediately until you talk with your Dr.

 

-Wendy

Edited June 5, 2011 by SF Mom

[lynn]

Thanks Wendy and Justine. I was able to get through to Dr and he said the same thing--this could be a herx, if he has no rash it is likely not Stevens Johnson, give him some motrin and let him sleep a little. Very relieving, and sorry to be such a ball of nerves. It has just been so long since he had a fever that I don't know what to do anymore! I will keep track of sores and stuff for the next few weeks anyway--it will make me feel better.