What it is used for

Treatment of mild to moderately severe infections due to penicillin V sensitive micro-organisms. Therapy should be guided by bacteriological studies ( including sensitivity tests) and by clinical response. Note: Severe pneumonia, empyema, bacteraemia, pericarditis, meningitis and arthritis should not be treated with penicillin V during the acute stage. Indicated surgical procedures should be performed. The following infections will usually respond to adequate dosage of penicillin V: Streptococcal infections( without bacteraemia). Mild to moderate infections of the upper respiratory tract, scarlet fever and mild erysipelas. Note: Streptococci in groups A,C,G,H,L and M are very sensitive to penicillin. Other groups, including Group D (enterococcus) are resistant. Pneumococcal infections. Mild to moderately severe infections of the respiratory tract. Staphylococcal infections-penicillin V sensitive. Mild infections of the skin and soft tissues. Note: Reports indicate an increasing number of strains of staphylococci resistant to penicillin V, emphasizing the need for culture and sensitivity studies in treating suspected staphylococcal infections. Fusospirochetosis (Vincent's gingivitis and pharyngitis)-Mild to moderately severe infections of the oropharynx usually respond to therapy with oral penicillin. Note: Reports indicate an increasing number of strains of staphylococci resistant to penicillin V, emphasizing the need for culture and sensitivity studies in treating suspected staphylococcal infections. Fusospirochetosis( Vincent's gingivitis and pharyngitis)-Mild to moderately severe infections of the oropharynx usually respond to therapy with oral penicillin. Note; Necessary dental care should be accomplished in infections involving the gum tissue. Medical conditions in which oral penicillin therapy is indicated as prophylaxis: For the prevention of recurrence following rheumatic fever and/or chorea-Prophylaxis with oral penicillin on a continuing basis has proven bacterial endocarditis in patients with congenital and/or rheumatic heart lesions who are to undergo dental procedures or minor upper respiratory tract surgery or instrumentation. Prophylaxis should be instituted on the day of the procedure and for 2 or more days following. Patients who have a past history of rheumatic fever and are receiving continuous prophylaxis may harbour increased numbers of penicillin-resistant organisms; use of another prophylactic anti-infective agent should be considered. If penicillin is to be used in these patients at surgery, penicillin may be re-instituted as a prophylactic measure against the hazards of surgically induced bacteraemia. Note: Oral penicillin should not be used as a adjunctive prophylaxis for genito-urinary instrumentation or surgery, lower intestinal tract surgery, sigmoidoscopy and complications of childbirth.

How to take it

The way to take this medicine is: Oral. This medicine is taken by mouth.

• Store below 25 degrees Celsius
• Shelf lifetime is 2 Years.

You should seek medical advice in relation to medicines and use only as directed by a healthcare professional.

Always read the label. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional.

Visual appearance

Capsules with a opaque red cap and opaque grey body printed with "LPV250" in black ink on cap and body.

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Do I need a prescription?

This medicine is available from a pharmacist and requires a prescription. It is Schedule 4 : Prescription Only Medicine. open tool tip to find out more

Is this medicine subsidised?

This medicine was verified as being available on the PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) on April 1, 2024. To learn more about this subsidy, visit the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) website.

Pregnant or planning a pregnancy?

For the active ingredient phenoxymethylpenicillin

This medicine is generally considered safe during pregnancy if taken as directed. During pregnancy, you should discuss your medicine use with your doctor or pharmacist.