Penicillin V (Penicillin V Potassium)(pen i sill’ in)
Apo-Pen-VK (CAN), Nu-Pen-VK (CAN)
PREGNANCY CATEGORY B
Drug Classes
Antibiotic
Penicillin (acid stable)
Therapeutic Actions
Bactericidal: Inhibits cell wall synthesis of sensitive organisms, causing cell death.
Indications
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Mild to moderately severe infections caused by sensitive organisms—streptococci, pneumococci, staphylococci, fusospirochetes
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Unlabeled uses: Prophylactic treatment of children with sickle cell anemia, actinomycosis, Lyme disease, postexposure anthrax prophylaxis
Contraindications and Cautions
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Contraindicated with allergies to penicillins, cephalosporins, or other allergens.
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Use cautiously with renal disorders, pregnancy, lactation (may cause diarrhea or candidiasis in the infant).
Available Forms
Tablets—250, 300, 500 mg; powder for oral solution—125, 250, 300 mg/5 mL
Dosages
Adults and patients older than 12 yr
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Fusospirochetal infections: 250–500 mg every 6–8 hr PO.
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Streptococcal infections (including otitis media, URIs of mild to moderate severity, scarlet fever, erysipelas): 125–250 mg every 6–8 hr PO for 10 days.
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Pneumococcal infections: 250–500 mg every 6 hr PO until afebrile for 48 hr.
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Staphylococcal infections of skin and soft tissues: 250–500 mg every 6–8 hr PO.
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Prevention of recurrence of rheumatic fever/chorea: 125–250 mg PO bid.
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Lyme disease: 500 mg PO qid for 10–20 days.
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