Why Does the Body Reject Generally Healthy Substances?

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The discussion centers on the phenomenon of the human body rejecting certain substances that are generally considered healthy due to their foreign nature. A key example highlighted is beta-lactam antibiotics, particularly penicillin, which many individuals are allergic to despite their effectiveness in treating serious bacterial infections. This raises questions about the body's immune response to foreign substances and the prevalence of such reactions in the context of medical treatments. The conversation suggests that while these reactions may not be common, they are significant in understanding allergies and the body's defense mechanisms.
dekoi
Is it common to see a human body rejecting a specific substance only because it is foreign to it -- while at the same time, being generally healthy for the human body?
 
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Common?...I'm not sure, but beta-lactam antibiotics in the context of a serious bacterial infection might qualify, as there are so many people allergic to penicillin.
 
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