How does phenoxymethylpenicillin work?
Phenoxymethylpenicillin is a penicillin antibiotic. It works by killing the bacteria that causes infection.
What if I do not get better?
Tell your doctor if you do not start feeling better after taking phenoxymethylpenicillin for 3 days.
Also tell them if you start to feel worse at any time.
Are there any long-term side effects?
Phenoxymethylpenicillin is generally safe when prescribed long term to prevent infections. There are no additional known side effects.
But if you develop diarrhoea that lasts for more than a couple of days, ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice.
How does phenoxymethylpenicillin compare with other antibiotics?
Phenoxymethylpenicillin and other penicillins, like amoxicillin, are antibiotics that are widely used to treat a variety of infections, including skin infections, chest infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Not all antibiotics are suitable for every infection. Your doctor will choose an antibiotic that's suitable for the type of infection you have.
Speak to your pharmacist or doctor if you have any questions.
Will it give me thrush?
Some people get a fungal infection called thrush after taking a course of antibiotics like phenoxymethylpenicillin. This happens because antibiotics kill the normal harmless bacteria that help to defend against thrush.
Symptoms include redness and itching in the mouth. Women may get vaginal itching.
If this happens to you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Will it affect my contraception?
Phenoxymethylpenicillin does not affect any type of contraception, including the combined pill, progestogen-only pill and emergency contraception.
But if phenoxymethylpenicillin is not working for you and you're being sick, your contraceptive pills may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet to find out what to do.
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Can I drive or ride a bike?
Yes, you can. Phenoxymethylpenicillin should not affect you being able to drive or cycle.
Can I drink alcohol with it?
Yes, you can drink alcohol with phenoxymethylpenicillin.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
You can eat and drink normally while taking phenoxymethylpenicillin.
Just remember to take phenoxymethylpenicillin on an empty stomach, either 30 minutes before a meal or at least 2 hours after you have eaten.