What is an indication of penicillin toxicity?

Neutropenia is a significant indication of penicillin toxicity. Neutropenia refers to a decrease in the number of neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell crucial for fighting off infections. This condition can arise as a result of the bone marrow’s suppressed ability to produce these cells after exposure to certain medications, including penicillins. When neutrophil levels drop, patients may be at an increased risk of infections, which is a serious concern when considering the overall safety profile of antibiotic treatments.

While high fever, stomach cramping, and insomnia could potentially occur due to various reasons, they are not specific indicators of penicillin toxicity. High fever may indicate an infection or an inflammatory response, stomach cramping could result from numerous gastrointestinal issues, and insomnia can stem from a wide array of causes unrelated to drug toxicity. Thus, neutropenia directly correlates with the hematologic side effects that can be a consequence of penicillin use, illustrating why this answer is the most accurate choice regarding an indication of toxicity.