Classes
DEA Class; Rx
Common Brand Names; Pen Vee K, Penicillin V, Veetids
- Penicillins, Natural
Description
Naturally derived penicillin antibiotic. Preferred over penicillin G when oral administration is desired due to better gastric acid stability, which results in higher plasma levels. Amoxicillin is preferred over pencillin V in some clinical situations such as endocarditis prophylaxis.
Indications
Indicated for Streptococcal Pharyngitis
Indicated for Actinomycosis, Erysipelas, Periodontal Infections, Recurrent Rheumatic Fever
Also indicated for Prosthetic Joint Infection (Off-label)
Contraindications
Allergy to penicillins, cephalosporins, or imipenem
Adverse Effects
Diarrhea
Nausea
Oral candidiasis
Vomiting
Seizure
Anemia
Interstitial nephritis
Hypersensitivity
Anaphylaxis
Positive Coombs reaction
Warnings
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 and 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
Maximum Dosage
2 g/day PO.
2 g/day PO.
2 g/day PO.
12 years: 2 g/day PO.
1 to 12 years: Safety and efficacy have not been established; however, doses up to 75 mg/kg/day (Max: 2 g/day) PO have been used off-label.
Safety and efficacy have not been established; however, doses up to 75 mg/kg/day PO have been used off-label.
Safety and efficacy have not been established; however, doses up to 75 mg/kg/day PO have been used off-label.
How supplied
Penicillin V
oral solution
- 125mg/5mL
- 250mg/5mL
tablet
- 250mg
- 500mg
