Phenoxymethylpenicillin for infection

About phenoxymethylpenicillin

What is phenoxymethylpenicillin used for?

Phenoxymethylpenicillin is a type of penicillin antibiotic used to treat infections such as chest infections, tonsillitis, cellulitis, ear infections, and dental abscesses.

It is used in particular for respiratory infections in children. You may also be prescribed phenoxymethylpenicillin to protect against infection if (for example) you have had rheumatic fever, or if you have sickle-cell disease, or if you have had your spleen removed.

Phenoxymethylpenicillin works by killing the germs that are causing the infection.

Side effects of phenoxymethylpenicillin

The most common side effects of phenoxymethylpenicillin are:

• Feeling sick (nausea).

• Being sick (vomiting).

• Stomach pain.

• Diarrhoea.

• Thrush.

• Skin rash.

The best place to find a full list of the side effects which can be associated with your medicine, is from the manufacturer's printed information leaflet supplied with the medicine.

Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

How to manage phenoxymethylpenicillin side effects

Who should not take phenoxymethylpenicillin?

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions. Before starting phenoxymethylpenicillin let your doctor or dentist know about any of the following:

• If you have an allergic condition (such as asthma, eczema, or hay fever), or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine. This is especially important if you have ever had a bad reaction to any penicillin antibiotic.

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding (although phenoxymethylpenicillin is not known to be harmful to babies).

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take phenoxymethylpenicillin

• Read the leaflet in the pack before starting phenoxymethylpenicillin. It explains how to take it and lists possible side effects.

• Take phenoxymethylpenicillin exactly as prescribed. For short-term infections, take it four times a day; for long-term prevention, take one or two doses daily.

  • Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you what dose is right for you to take, and the full directions will also be printed on the label of the pack to remind you about what was said to you.

  • It is important that you space out the doses evenly during the day.

• If you have been given liquid medicine for a child, read the directions carefully to make sure you measure out the correct amount of medicine.

• Take phenoxymethylpenicillin on an empty stomach - 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating - so your body can absorb it properly.

• If you forget to take a dose at your usual time, take it as soon as you remember. Try to take the correct number of doses each day, but do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a forgotten dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Finish the full course of phenoxymethylpenicillin, even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you to stop.

• Treatment usually lasts 7–10 days. If you’re still unwell after finishing, see your doctor. For long-term prevention, take it as prescribed.

• Thrush (in the mouth or vagina) can occur after antibiotics - speak to your doctor or pharmacist if this happens.

• This antibiotic can stop the oral typhoid vaccine from working. If you are due to have any vaccinations, make sure the person treating you knows that you are taking this medicine.

How to store phenoxymethylpenicillin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

• If you have been given liquid medicine, store it in a refrigerator. It will have been made up by the pharmacy and lasts for seven days, so check the expiry date on the bottle and do not use it after this date.

Important information about all medicines

Frequently asked questions

Can I drink alcohol on phenoxymethylpenicillin?

Yes, you can usually drink alcohol while taking phenoxymethylpenicillin. Alcohol does not directly interfere with how the medicine works, but drinking may make side effects like stomach upset or dizziness feel worse.

Will taking phenoxymethylpenicillin affect my contraception?

Phenoxymethylpenicillin does not usually affect hormonal contraception. You can continue using the pill, patch or coil as normal while taking this antibiotic. If you are concerned, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for reassurance.

Can I drive or ride a bike whilst taking phenoxymethylpenicillin?

Yes, you can usually drive or ride a bike while taking phenoxymethylpenicillin. The antibiotic does not normally affect your ability to drive.

Is phenoxymethylpenicillin stronger than amoxicillin?

No, phenoxymethylpenicillin is not generally considered stronger than amoxicillin. Amoxicillin is usually preferred for a wider range of infections because it is absorbed better and works against more types of bacteria. Phenoxymethylpenicillin is still effective, but it is typically used for more specific infections, such as strep throat.