Phenoxymethylpenicillin

Products

Phenoxymethylpenicillin is commercially available in the form of film-coated tablets and as a syrup. It has been approved in many countries since 1961 (Ospen).

Structure and properties

Phenoxymethylpenicillin or pencillin V (C₁₆H₁₈N₂O₅S, M_r = 350.4 g/mol) is present in the tablets as phenoxymethylpenicillin potassium, a white crystalline powder that is readily soluble in water. In the syrup, it is present as phenoxymethylpenicillin benzathine. The active ingredient is derived from molds such as .

Effects

Phenoxymethylpenicillin (ATC J01CE02, J01CE02) has bactericidal properties. The effects are due to inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis.

Indications

For treatment of bacterial infectious diseases with susceptible pathogens. Phenoxymethylpenicillin is used for respiratory tract infections, ENT infections, skin infections, and streptococcal infections, among others.

Dosage

According to the drug label. Medicines are usually taken three to four times daily between meals (fasting). Food may reduce absorption. Frequent intake is a result of the short half-life of the antibiotic.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to beta-lactam antibiotics.

For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Adverse effects

The most common possible adverse effects include inflammation of the oral mucosa and tongue, diarrhea, skin rashes, and other hypersensitivity reactions