Phenoxymethylpenicillin (K)
Also known as: Penicillin V
Phenoxymethylpenicillin (K) is acid-resistant penicillin used orally. The actions, uses and adverse effects simmilar to that of benzylpenicillin. Antibiotics require constant drug level in body for therapeutic effect. This is achieved by taking the drug at regular intervals of time throughout the day and night as prescribed. Phenoxymethylpenicillin (K) is important to take the drug for the full time period as prescribed. If you discontinue the drug it may result in ineffective treatment.
Primary Characteristics
Phenoxymethylpenicillin (K) is also known as Penicillin V.
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Penicillanic Acid.
It belongs to Peptidoglycan synthesis inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antibiotics pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 388.5 · pKa: 2.7 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 1.5 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 150 · Non-proprietary name: Phenoxymethylpenicillin (K).

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Phenoxymethylpenicillin (K) has an oral bioavailability is 60%.
Distribution: Phenoxymethylpenicillin (K) has a volume of distribution is 0.2 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 80 %.
Elimination: plasma half-life is 0.5 hr, renal excretion is 37 - 43 %.
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Indications
Phenoxymethylpenicillin (K) is primarily indicated in conditions like Bacterial infections, Endocarditis, Prophylaxis of rheumatic fever, Pruritus, Reversal of opioid-induced respiratory depression, Tonsillitis, Tonsillitis, otitis media.
Contraindications
Phenoxymethylpenicillin (K) is contraindicated in conditions like Penicillin hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Phenoxymethylpenicillin (K)'s dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 375 mg | 375 mg | Every 6h | PO | As Required |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 12.5 mg/kg | 12.5 mg/kg | Every 6h | Oral | - |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 7.812 mg/kg | 7.812 mg/kg | Every 6h | Intramuscular | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Phenoxymethylpenicillin (K) in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Liver damage .
Phenoxymethylpenicillin (K) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Anaphylactic shock, Allergic reactions. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
Phenoxymethylpenicillin (K) is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal discomfort, Diarrhea, Increased capillary fragility, Nausea, Vomiting .
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Phenoxymethylpenicillin (K) may interfere in the diagnosis of Biological tests for serum folate , Serum electrophoresis , Urinary Tests for Fructose, Aminolaevulinic acid, Oestrogens, 17-OH-Ketosteroids, protein & sugar , Serum Tests for Uric Acid .
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.2.1.1 — Penicillins