Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam Practice Question

Which of the following medications warrants caution with respect to cross-sensitivity to penicillin?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Cephalexin, a cephalosporin antibiotic, shares a similar beta-lactam structure with penicillin, which can lead to cross-sensitivity in patients with penicillin allergies. This makes it crucial to exercise caution when prescribing cephalexin to those with a known penicillin allergy.

Doxycycline and clindamycin belong to different antibiotic classes (tetracyclines and lincosamides, respectively) and do not exhibit cross-reactivity with penicillin. Metronidazole, an antiprotozoal and antibacterial agent, also lacks structural similarities to penicillin. Thus, while doxycycline, clindamycin, and metronidazole are generally safe for penicillin-allergic patients, cephalexin requires careful consideration.

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