Pen VK (Penicillin)

Do’s

• Take Pen VK exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Take it with or without food, but for best absorption take it on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals).
• Take it at evenly spaced times throughout the day. Set an alarm or use a reminder app to help you remember.
• Continue taking Pen VK for the entire prescribed duration, even if you feel better. Stopping it early can cause the infection to return.
• Tell your healthcare provider if your condition doesn't improve or worsens.

Don'ts

• Don't skip doses or take more than prescribed.
• Don't take Pen VK with antacids, calcium supplements, or other medications/supplements that contain aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, or zinc subsalicylate. These can interfere with absorption.

Common side effects:

• Adverse gastrointestinal effects such as nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and black hairy tongue
• Hypersensitivity reactions, including fever, eosinophilia, rash, and urticaria
• Other less common side effects may also occur, such as blurred vision and dry eyes

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity (anaphylactic) reactions, which are more likely to occur in individuals with a history of penicillin hypersensitivity and/or a history of sensitivity to multiple allergens
• Other serious side effects have been reported with penicillin V potassium, and it is important to seek medical attention if any concerning symptoms arise

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Pen VK,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Let your healthcare provider know if you have allergies to penicillin, other penicillin-type antibiotics (amoxicillin, ampicillin), cephalosporins (cephalexin, cefuroxime), or any other medications.

Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing kidney problems.

Penicillin might interfere with live bacterial vaccines. Tell your healthcare provider about taking Pen VK before any vaccinations.

Pen VK should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. Pen VK passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take (prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products) to avoid potential interactions. Never start, stop, or change the dosage of any medications without your healthcare provider's approval.

Pen VK can interact with methotrexate, tetracyclines, khat, and guar gum. Pen VK might affect certain lab tests, especially diabetic urine tests. Inform your healthcare provider and lab personnel about taking Pen VK.