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Real members of MGteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

When taking antibiotics does it make MG symptoms worse? I'm exhausted! Have just exhaustion and maybe my eye is drooping again, not a flare

A MGteam Member asked a question 💭
Leola, PA

Have been doing very well on the treatment plan I've been on for a year. My cat is moody at times and bit me. I knew it was going to be a problem as soon as it happened, she caught a showing vein on the top of my hand.

April 29
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A MGteam Member

Though I went to Urgent Care, they checked before prescribing anything. it might be the side effects or more meds, or just the healing process. One day at a time.

April 29
MGteam

Oh no — a cat bite on a vein sounds really unpleasant, and it's completely understandable to be worried, especially with MG in the picture. The exhaustion and possible eye drooping you're noticing could very well be connected to the antibiotic you're taking.

Yes, some antibiotics can worsen MG symptoms. The ones most likely Show Full Answer

Oh no — a cat bite on a vein sounds really unpleasant, and it's completely understandable to be worried, especially with MG in the picture. The exhaustion and possible eye drooping you're noticing could very well be connected to the antibiotic you're taking.

Yes, some antibiotics can worsen MG symptoms. The ones most likely to cause problems include:

- Fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin) — can block muscle signals, leading to weakness, drooping eyelids, and breathing difficulty
- Macrolides (e.g., azithromycin) — can interfere with the nerve-muscle communication that's already compromised in MG
- Aminoglycosides (e.g., gentamicin) — can also worsen muscle weakness
- Some tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline) Safer antibiotic options for MG include penicillins like amoxicillin or ampicillin, which are commonly used for skin infections — relevant for a cat bite situation.

It's really important to contact your neurologist or MG specialist right away and let them know which antibiotic was prescribed. They can help switch to a safer option if needed and keep a close eye on your symptoms.

Watch carefully for any breathing difficulties or significant worsening — that would need urgent attention.

April 29
A MGteam Member

I had to take an antibiotic for a uti that I never knew I had (detected on urine culture) I was asymptomatic. Dr prescribed sulfa I was a nervous wreck taking it but had no complications.

June 21
A MGteam Member

Ive never had problems with antibiotics. I get appointed u.T.I's luckily the antibiotics work

May 5
A MGteam Member

What about Walmart delivery?

May 1

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