What is a common side effect of administering IV antibiotics?

Administering IV antibiotics can lead to allergic reactions or gastrointestinal disturbances, which are considered common side effects. Allergic reactions can range from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis, depending on the patient's sensitivity to the medication. Gastrointestinal disturbances may include symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in gut flora, which are often a direct result of the antibiotic disrupting the normal balance of bacteria in the gut.

Both allergic reactions and gastrointestinal issues are significant concerns that healthcare providers must monitor when administering IV antibiotics. In contrast, while headaches or dizziness, increased blood pressure, and local swelling or bruising can occasionally occur, they are not as frequently associated with antibiotics specifically as allergic reactions and gastrointestinal disturbances are. This highlights the importance of being aware of the more common side effects to ensure patient safety and effective management during antibiotic therapy.