Introduction: 

Penicillin V is a member of the penicillin drug class and is a narrow-spectrum antibiotic. It is frequently prescribed for infections like tonsillitis, streptococcal pharyngitis, and mild skin infections because of its effectiveness against a variety of Gram-positive bacteria. Other drug of same class includes Amoxicilin

Dosage Form: 

Penicillin V is available in several dosage forms, including tablets and oral suspension

Generic Name: 

The generic name of the drug is penicillin V

Major Brands in Pakistan: 

 Some major brands of penicillin V available in Pakistan include: Pen-Vee K, Veetids, Penicillin-VK

Storage Conditions: 

Penicillin V should be kept in a tightly closed container and kept out of direct sunlight at room temperature, between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F).

Pharmacodynamics: 

Mechanism of Action: 

Penicillin V functions by preventing bacteria from synthesizing their cell walls. It attaches itself to proteins that bind penicillin, preventing peptidoglycan chains from cross-linking, which is critical for maintaining the integrity of bacterial cell walls. Bacterial cell lysis and death result from this in the end.

Therapeutic Indications: 

Penicillin V is indicated for the treatment of various infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including streptococcal infections of the throat and skin, and mild infections of the respiratory tract

Dosage Form

Adults: 

Usual dose: 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 to 8 hours, depending on the severity and type of infection

Pediatric: 

Dosing is usually based on body weight: 12.5 to 25 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 6 to 8 hours, depending on the severity and type of infection

Adverse Effects: 

Common adverse effects of penicillin V include gastrointestinal disturbances (such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), allergic reactions (ranging from rash to anaphylaxis), and superinfections

Drug Interactions: 

Penicillin V may interact with oral contraceptives (lowering their effectiveness) and anticoagulants (raising bleeding risk)

Contraindications: 

Penicillin V is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity reactions to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption: 

After oral dosing, penicillin V is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and reaches peak serum concentrations in one to two hours.

Protein Binding: 

 Approximately 70 to 80% of penicillin V is bound to plasma proteins

Metabolism: 

Penicillin V is mostly eliminated unaltered in the urine and only little metabolized in the liver.

Elimination:

Primarily renal excretion. 

Half-life: 

Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour. 

Precautions: 

Patients who have previously experienced penicillin hypersensitivity responses should use penicillin V with caution. When on long-term medication, periodically check liver and kidney function.

Use in Pregnancy: 

The FDA has designated Penicillin V as Pregnancy Category B. Although it is usually regarded as safe to take while pregnant, you should only use it when a doctor has prescribed it and it is obviously necessary.

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