Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
oral solution
- 125mg/5mL
- 250mg/5mL
tablet
- 250mg
- 500mg
Streptococcal Pharyngitis
500 mg PO q12hr or 250 mg PO q6hr for 10 days
Actinomycosis
Mild: 2-4 g/day PO divided q6hr for 8 weeks
Surgical: 2-4 g/day PO divided q6hr for 6-12 months
Erysipelas
500 mg PO q6hr
Periodontal Infections
250-500 mg PO q6hr for 5-7 days
Recurrent Rheumatic Fever
Prophylaxis
250 mg PO q12hr
Prosthetic Joint Infection (Off-label)
500 mg PO q6-12hr
Dosing Considerations
Monitor renal and hematologic systems
Administration
Take on empty stomach
Dosage Forms & Strengths
oral solution
- 125mg/5mL
- 250mg/5mL
tablet
- 250mg
- 500mg
Pneumococcal Systemic Infections
<12 years
>12 years
- 250-500 mg PO q6-8hr until the patient is afebrile for at least 2 days
Pneumococcal Infection Prophylaxis
<5 years: 125 mg PO q12hr
>5 years: 250 mg PO q12hr
Streptococcal Pharyngitis
Children: 250 mg PO q8-12hr for 10 days
Adolescents: 250 mg PO q6hr or 500 mg PO q12hr for 10 days
Rheumatic Fever
Primary prevention
<5 years: 125 mg q12hr PO for 10 days
>5 years: 250 mg q12hr PO for 10 days
Recurrent Rheumatic Fever
Prophylaxis
Children: 125-250 mg PO q12hr on a continuing basis
Administration
Take on empty stomach
Interactions
Interaction Checker
No Results
Contraindicated
Serious - Use Alternative
Significant - Monitor Closely
Minor
Contraindicated (0)
Serious - Use Alternative (10)
- BCG vaccine live
penicillin VK decreases effects of BCG vaccine live by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Contraindicated. Wait until antibiotic treatment complete to administer live bacterial vaccine.
- cholera vaccine
penicillin VK, cholera vaccine. pharmacodynamic antagonism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid coadministration of cholera vaccine with systemic antibiotics since these agents may be active against the vaccine strain. Do not administer cholera vaccine to patients who have received oral or parenteral antibiotics within 14 days prior to vaccination.
- demeclocycline
demeclocycline decreases effects of penicillin VK by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- doxycycline
doxycycline decreases effects of penicillin VK by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- microbiota oral
penicillin VK decreases effects of microbiota oral by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Microbiota oral contains bacterial spores. Antibacterial agents may decrease efficacy if coadministered. Complete antibiotic regimens 2-4 days before initiating microbiota oral. .
- minocycline
minocycline decreases effects of penicillin VK by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- omadacycline
omadacycline decreases effects of penicillin VK by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Tetracyclines may interfere with the bactericidal action of penicillins. Monitor for decreased therapeutic effects of penicillins if concomitantly used with a tetracycline.
- sarecycline
sarecycline decreases effects of penicillin VK by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Tetracyclines may interfere with the bactericidal action of penicillins. Monitor for decreased therapeutic effects of penicillins if concomitantly used with a tetracycline.
- tetracycline
tetracycline decreases effects of penicillin VK by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- typhoid vaccine live
penicillin VK decreases effects of typhoid vaccine live by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Contraindicated. Wait until Abx Tx complete to administer live bacterial vaccine.
Monitor Closely (14)
- amifampridine
penicillin VK increases toxicity of amifampridine by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Comment: Amifampridine can cause seizures. Coadministration with drugs that lower seizure threshold may increase this risk.
- choline magnesium trisalicylate
penicillin VK, choline magnesium trisalicylate. Either increases levels of the other by plasma protein binding competition. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dienogest/estradiol valerate
penicillin VK will decrease the level or effect of dienogest/estradiol valerate by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor. An alternate or additional form of birth control may be advisable during concomitant use.
- ethinylestradiol
penicillin VK will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ibuprofen IV
penicillin VK, ibuprofen IV. Either increases levels of the other by decreasing renal clearance. Use Caution/Monitor.
penicillin VK, ibuprofen IV. Either increases levels of the other by plasma protein binding competition. Use Caution/Monitor. - levonorgestrel oral/ethinylestradiol/ferrous bisglycinate
penicillin VK will decrease the level or effect of levonorgestrel oral/ethinylestradiol/ferrous bisglycinate by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor. Antibiotics may decrease hormonal contraceptive efficacy.
- methyclothiazide
penicillin VK, methyclothiazide. Either increases levels of the other by decreasing renal clearance. Use Caution/Monitor.
- neomycin PO
neomycin PO decreases levels of penicillin VK by inhibition of GI absorption. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Use Caution/Monitor.
- rose hips
penicillin VK, rose hips. Either increases levels of the other by decreasing renal clearance. Use Caution/Monitor.
- salicylates (non-asa)
penicillin VK, salicylates (non-asa). Either increases levels of the other by plasma protein binding competition. Use Caution/Monitor.
- salsalate
penicillin VK, salsalate. Either increases levels of the other by plasma protein binding competition. Use Caution/Monitor.
- sodium phenylacetate
penicillin VK, sodium phenylacetate. Either increases levels of the other by decreasing renal clearance. Use Caution/Monitor.
- sodium picosulfate/magnesium oxide/anhydrous citric acid
penicillin VK decreases effects of sodium picosulfate/magnesium oxide/anhydrous citric acid by altering metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration with antibiotics decreases efficacy by altering colonic bacterial flora needed to convert sodium picosulfate to active drug.
- willow bark
penicillin VK, willow bark. Either increases levels of the other by decreasing renal clearance. Use Caution/Monitor.
Minor (14)
- aspirin
penicillin VK, aspirin. Either increases levels of the other by decreasing renal clearance. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- aspirin rectal
penicillin VK, aspirin rectal. Either increases levels of the other by decreasing renal clearance. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- aspirin/citric acid/sodium bicarbonate
penicillin VK, aspirin/citric acid/sodium bicarbonate. Either increases levels of the other by decreasing renal clearance. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- azithromycin
azithromycin decreases effects of penicillin VK by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- chloramphenicol
chloramphenicol decreases effects of penicillin VK by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- chlorothiazide
chlorothiazide increases levels of penicillin VK by decreasing renal clearance. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- clarithromycin
clarithromycin decreases effects of penicillin VK by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- erythromycin base
erythromycin base decreases effects of penicillin VK by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- erythromycin ethylsuccinate
erythromycin ethylsuccinate decreases effects of penicillin VK by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- erythromycin lactobionate
erythromycin lactobionate decreases effects of penicillin VK by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- erythromycin stearate
erythromycin stearate decreases effects of penicillin VK by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- furosemide
furosemide increases levels of penicillin VK by decreasing renal clearance. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- hydrochlorothiazide
hydrochlorothiazide increases levels of penicillin VK by decreasing renal clearance. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- probenecid
probenecid will increase the level or effect of penicillin VK by acidic (anionic) drug competition for renal tubular clearance. Minor/Significance Unknown.
Adverse Effects
Frequency Not Defined
Diarrhea
Nausea
Oral candidiasis
Vomiting
Seizure
Anemia
Interstitial nephritis
Hypersensitivity
Anaphylaxis
Positive Coombs reaction
Warnings
Contraindications
Allergy to penicillins, cephalosporins, or imipenem
Cautions
Caution in severe renal impairment
Prolonged use may result in superinfection
Use with caution in patients with asthma history; IGE mediated anaphylactic reactions (eg, urticaria, anaphylaxis) reported
Use with caution in neonates; some dosage forms may contain sodium benzoate/benzoic acid, which may cause fatal toxicity (gasping syndrome) when used in large amounts
Adverse effects, including hemolytic anemia, serum sickness, or neutropenia, may occur with prolonged use; serum concentrations may increase with extended duration of therapy, especially in patients with renal insufficiency
Use caution in patients with history of seizure disorders; high serum levels, especially in the presence of renal impairment, may increase risk of seizures
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy
Penicillin crosses the placenta; use during pregnancy generally has not resulted in an increased risk of fetal adverse effects
Lactation
Penicillin is excreted into breast milk; compatible with breastfeeding
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits the biosynthesis of cell wall mucopeptide; bactericidal against sensitive organisms when adequate concentrations are reached, and most effective during the stage of active multiplication; inadequate concentrations may produce only bacteriostatic effects.
Absorption
Bioavailability: 60-73%
Peak plasma time: 0.5-1 hr
Distribution
Protein bound: 80%
Crosses placenta; poor blood-brain barrier diffusion
Metabolism
Hepatic
Elimination
Half-life: 0.5-0.6 hr
Excretion: Urine
Images
| BRAND | FORM. | UNIT PRICE | PILL IMAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
| penicillin V potassium oral - | 250 mg tablet |  | |
| penicillin V potassium oral - | 250 mg tablet |  | |
| penicillin V potassium oral - | 500 mg tablet |  | |
| penicillin V potassium oral - | 500 mg tablet |  | |
| penicillin V potassium oral - | 500 mg tablet |  | |
| penicillin V potassium oral - | 250 mg/5 mL solution |  | |
| penicillin V potassium oral - | 250 mg/5 mL solution |  | |
| penicillin V potassium oral - | 250 mg tablet |  | |
| penicillin V potassium oral - | 125 mg/5 mL solution |  | |
| penicillin V potassium oral - | 500 mg tablet |  | |
| penicillin V potassium oral - | 250 mg tablet |  | |
| penicillin V potassium oral - | 125 mg/5 mL solution |  |
Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
Patient Handout
penicillin V potassium oral
PENICILLIN V POTASSIUM - ORAL
(pen-ih-SILL-in VEE poh-TASS-ee-um)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Pen-Vee K, V-Cillin K, Veetids
USES: Penicillin is an antibiotic used to treat and prevent a wide variety of bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.This antibiotic treats and prevents only bacterial infections. It will not work for virus infections (such as the common cold, flu). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. This medication may be taken with or without food. However, penicillin is best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals).The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.For the best effect, take this antibiotic at evenly spaced times. To help you remember, take this medication at the same time(s) every day.Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a return of the infection.Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
SIDE EFFECTS: Upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and mouth sores may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Although this effect is uncommon, you may develop a black, "hairy" tongue while taking this medication. This effect is harmless and usually goes away after treatment. Maintain good oral hygiene, and brush your tongue with a soft toothbrush twice a day. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: unusual tiredness, joint/muscle pain, easy bruising/bleeding.This medication may rarely cause a severe intestinal condition due to a bacteria called C. difficile. This condition may occur during treatment or weeks to months after treatment has stopped. Tell your doctor right away if you develop: diarrhea that doesn't stop, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, blood/mucus in your stool.If you have these symptoms, do not use anti-diarrhea or opioid products because they may make symptoms worse.Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in oral thrush or a new vaginal yeast infection (oral or vaginal fungal infection). Contact your doctor if you notice white patches in your mouth, a change in vaginal discharge or other new symptoms.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), new fever, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking penicillin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other antibiotics including penicillin-type medications (such as amoxicillin, ampicillin) or cephalosporins (such as cephalexin, cefuroxime); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems.Penicillin may cause live bacterial vaccines (such as typhoid vaccine) to not work well. Tell your health care professional that you are using penicillin before having any immunizations/vaccinations.During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.This drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.Some products that may interact with this drug are: methotrexate, tetracyclines, khat, guar gum.This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (such as certain diabetic urine tests), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.
OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: diarrhea that doesn't stop, severe vomiting.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection unless your doctor tells you to.With long term treatment, lab and/or medical tests (such as kidney function, complete blood counts) should be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Information last revised July 2023. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Formulary
Adding plans allows you to compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
To view formulary information first create a list of plans. Your list will be saved and can be edited at any time.
Adding plans allows you to:
- View the formulary and any restrictions for each plan.
- Manage and view all your plans together – even plans in different states.
- Compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
- Access your plan list on any device – mobile or desktop.
