Often used for:
Treating or preventing bacterial infections
What is penicillin V potassium?
Penicillin V potassium is an antibiotic used to treat or prevent infections caused by certain bacteria. It may be given in the clinic, hospital, or at home.
Penicillin V potassium at home
- Take on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, unless stomach upset occurs.
- Tablets: store at room temperature.
- Liquid: shake well, use the provided measuring device, store in the refrigerator, and discard after 14 days.
- Give missed doses as soon as possible unless it is near the next dose.
- Do not double doses.
- Do not share the medicine.
Possible side effects
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- White patches in the mouth
- Loss of appetite
- Allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, runny nose, fever, chills, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, dizziness, low blood pressure, chest pain, swelling of face or neck)
- Not all patients experience these side effects. Report any symptoms.
Tips for patients and families
- Discuss all questions with the doctor or pharmacist.
- Tell the care team about any penicillin allergies.
- Penicillin V potassium may interact with methotrexate and reduce the effectiveness of estrogen-containing birth control.
- May cause false-positive urine glucose tests.
- Use additional birth control for at least one month after therapy.
- Always complete the full course as prescribed.
