The most common condition for which penicillin treatment is recommended include various bacterial infection. Ear infections, tonsillitis, skin infections, dental infections, scarlet and rheumatic fevers, and sometimes parasitic and fungal infections are all commonly treated using penicillin. The treatment works by invading bacteria cell walls and preventing them from multiplying.
Most conditions which require treatment with penicillin are bacterial in nature. It is used to treat staph infections and other bacteria which may invade various parts of the body. Sometimes additional infections are treated using this drug, such as parasites, but this is less common. Viruses are not affected by antibiotics.
Since penicillin can only be prescribed by a doctor, those who believe they have an infection should receive medical attention. If penicillin is prescribed, it is important to take the entire dosage given on time, and to finish the entire prescribed amount. Failure to do so could result in a reinfection.
Not all patients can have penicillin treatment and similar antibiotics. Allergic reactions to this drug and others within the same family are relatively common among drug interactions. Alternative antibiotic treatments are often used. Penicillin treatment can be given in tablet or liquid form. Some forms have to be injected using a needle and syringe, although this is generally required only for severe bacterial infections.
There are various subtypes of penicillin treatment, as the drug comes in various concentrations and potency. In many areas, penicillin can only used when prescribed by a doctor. Those who have never used penicillin before should be monitored closely after the first dose to ensure that an allergic reaction does not occur.
Penicillin treatment may cause side effects in some individuals. Fever, hives, nausea, anemia, upset stomach, throat pain and swelling, rash, and black hairy tongue. Most of these effects will subside once the medication is discontinued, but some may require medical treatment. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction can include hives, rash, and swelling of the throat which hinders breathing. If this occurs, emergency services should be contacted immediately.
Some forms of penicillin and other antibiotic treatments can interact with hormonal birth control pills. Those who are taking hormonal birth control and who are prescribed penicillin should use a backup method of birth control. Condoms, diaphragm, or spermicidal methods are common options.
