Give antibiotics exactly as prescribed. Timing of doses is important. Missed doses can result in inadequate treatment. Give the antibiotic for the full number of days prescribed or until it is all gone. Do not stop medication early because the child seems better, symptoms are likely to return.
Antibiotics can have side effects.
If rash, hives, difficulty breathing, wheezing, or swelling of the mouth occurs, call your doctor or return to the Emergency Department immediately. If diarrhea develops, then call your doctor for advice. However, your child should not appear sicker than when seen in the Emergency Department. If symptoms become worse, the child must be re-evaluated. Dose acetaminophen based on your child's current weight, rather than age, for best effect.