Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

PENICILLINS - INJECTION

Uses

Penicillins are antibiotics used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections.

How To Use

This medication must be used as directed by your doctor. Clean area before administering. Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by using the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. Continue to use this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow resulting in a relapse of the infection.

Side Effects

This medication may cause mild diarrhea, stomach upset, nausea and vomiting during the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become severe, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop: bloody urine, watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, unusual bleeding or bruising, yellow eyes or skin, unusual tiredness or weakness. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: other illnesses, allergies (especially to penicillin or other antibiotics). Some injectible penicillins contain sodium; this could affect you if you are on a salt-restricted diet or if you have a condition which could be worsened with an increase in salt intake (e.g., congestive heart failure). If this pertains to you, check with your pharmacist to see if your brand contains sodium. If so, contact your doctor for more information. Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in a secondary infection (e.g., oral, bladder or vaginal yeast infection). This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all the medications you use (prescription and nonprescription), especially of: probenecid, tetracyclines, ACE inhibitors (e.g., captopril). This drug may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. Discuss using other methods of birth control with your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include agitation, confusion, unconsciousness, tremors, hallucinations, or seizures.

Notes

This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection or give it to someone else. A different medication may be necessary

Missed Dose

If you should miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose.

Storage

This medication must be stored properly. Review storage instruction with your doctor or pharmacist. Intravenous bags are to be stored in the refrigerator. Let a refrigerated bag sit at room temperature at least one hour before using. Check expiration date before using. Store vial at room temperature away from sunlight.