Penicillin V Potassium, also known as Phenoxymethylpenicillin potassium salt, is an orally active antibiotic.
I. Basic Information
English Name: Penicillin V Potassium
CAS Number: 132-98-9
Molecular Formula: C16H17KN2O5S
Molecular Weight: 388.48
II. Pharmacological Action
Penicillin V Potassium exerts its antibacterial effect by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, causing the bacteria to rupture and lyse rapidly. It is active against most Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative cocci, individual Gram-negative bacilli (such as Haemophilus species), spirochetes, and actinomycetes. However, it has weaker antibacterial activity against most strains of Staphylococcus, including Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, due to their ability to produce β-lactamases that inactivate Penicillin V Potassium.
III. Indications
Penicillin V Potassium is indicated for mild to moderate infections caused by penicillin-sensitive strains, including but not limited to:
Streptococcal infections such as tonsillitis, pharyngitis, scarlet fever, and erysipelas.
Pneumonia caused by pneumococcus, bronchitis, otitis media, and sinusitis.
Skin and soft tissue infections caused by sensitive strains of Staphylococcus.
Spirochetal infections and as prophylactic medication for recurrent rheumatic fever and infective endocarditis.
