Phenoxymethylpenicillin: how to take it safely
Penicillin V, Ospen
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats throat, ear and skin infections, and prevents rheumatic fever from coming back.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water.
- Finish the full course, even if you feel better.
When to take it
Take it 3 to 4 times a day, at evenly spaced times.
Take it with
On an empty stomach, 30 minutes before food.
What to avoid
- Stopping the course early.
- Sharing or saving leftover antibiotics.
- Tell your doctor if you are allergic to penicillin or other antibiotics.
Possible side effects
Nausea, diarrhoea, mild rash.
Get help if
Rash, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, or trouble breathing: get urgent help. Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea, or no improvement after 2 to 3 days: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.