Penicillin V Potassium Uses

Penicillin V potassium is used to treat infections affecting the ears, gums, mouth, skin, and throat, scarlet fever, pneumonia, and other infections of the lower and upper respiratory tract. This antibiotic is also used to prevent symptoms of rheumatic fever from recurring (this is a condition that develops after scarlet fever or strep throat and can damage the heart valves). 

There may be other uses of penicillin V potassium, such as to treat anthrax and diphtheria and for prophylaxis (to prevent infections) in people with heart valve problems before undergoing dental procedures. Your doctor or health system pharmacists can give you further drug information.

Penicillin V Potassium Mechanism of Action

Penicillin V potassium is an antibiotic. It kills certain bacteria (penicillin-sensitive microorganisms) that cause infections.

Penicillin V Potassium Doses

Penicillin V potassium comes in the form of 250 mg and 500 mg tablets and 125 mg/5 mL and 250 mg/5 mL oral solution. The usual dose of this antibiotic in adults and children over 12 years of age is 125 mg to 500 mg by mouth every 6-12 hours. The dose in children under 12 years of age is based on the child’s body weight. The treatment duration depends on the type of bacterial infection. Mild infections and moderate infections usually require a shorter treatment course compared to moderately severe infections and severe infections.