SUPPLEMENT 14

MEDICATION SUMMARIES

 

PENICILLINS

GENERIC AND BRAND NAMES

See complete list of generic and brand names in the Generic and Brand Name Directory, page 889

BASIC INFORMATION

Habit forming? No

Prescription needed? Yes

Available as generic? Yes

Drug class: Antibiotic (penicillin)

USES

Treatment of bacterial infections that are susceptible to penicillin, including lower respiratory tract infections, otitis media, sinusitis, skin and skin structure infections, urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal disorders, ulcers, endocarditis, pharyngitis. Different penicillins treat different kinds of infections.

DOSAGE & USAGE INFORMATION

How to take:

- Tablet or capsule – Swallow with liquid on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating. You may take amoxicillin, penicillin V, pivampicillin or pivmecillinam on a full stomach.

- Chewable tablet – Chew or crush before swallowing.

- Oral suspension – Measure each dose with an accurate measuring device (not a household teaspoon). Store according to instructions.

When to take:

Follow instructions on prescription label, or take as directed by doctor. The number of doses, the time between doses and the length of treatment will depend on the problem being treated.

If you forget a dose:

Take as soon as you remember, then continue regular schedule. If it is almost time for the next dose, wait for that dose (don’t double that dose).