Penicillin VK (oral)

C. diff Risk

Low

Oral Bioavailability

Excellent

Approximate Cost

$0.50/day

Spectrum Of Activity

Dosing

Use with caution; excretion is prolonged in patients with renal impairment. Consult with a pharmacist for dosing in renal impairment.

No dose adjustment recommended.

Prophylaxis for asplenia (children ≥3 years), PO: 500 mg/DAY divided into 2 daily doses.

Prophylaxis for asplenia (Infants and children <3 years), PO: 250 mg/DAY divided into 2 daily doses

Children >12 years and Adolescents: 375-2000 mg/DAY PO divided q6-8h or dose based on weight: 25- 75 mg/kg/DAY PO divided q6-8h.

Infants and Children <12 years: 25-75 mg/kg/DAY PO divided q6-8h. Max 2000 mg/DAY.

General Information

Common Usage

Streptococcal infections and therapy of documented susceptible infection not requiring parenteral therapy (i.e. upper respiratory tract)

Prophylaxis after rheumatic fever

Drug Monitoring

Monitor for allergy.

Periodic CBC, SCr

Adverse Effects

Allergy (anaphylaxis) and other rash

Cytopenias, Positive Coombs, Eosinophilia

Serum sickness

Acute interstitial nephritis

Pharmacology

Antimicrobial class: Penicillin

Average serum half life: No pediatric data. Adults: 30 minutes; prolonged in patients with renal impairment

Route of Elimination: Penicillin V and its metabolites are excreted in urine