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Penicillin
Penicillin prescription available online
If you are suffering from a bacterial infection, penicillin can help. Get a new prescription or refill of penicillin today.*
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Trusted antibiotic for bacterial infections
Available as an oral capsule, tablet, oral suspension, or injection
Quick and secure Penicillin prescriptions*
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and our prescription discount card.
About penicillin
Penicillin is an antibiotic that disrupts cell wall synthesis to kill bacteria. Like any antibiotic, this medication can only be used for bacterial infections. It is ineffective against viral infections because it will not kill the virus.
Some conditions that penicillin is known to treat include throat infections, dental abscesses, and endocarditis. Penicillin is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation and under different brand names.
Penicillin may be prescribed as an oral capsule, tablet, oral suspension, or injection. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you're prescribed penicillin, be sure to complete the full course of the antibiotic treatment unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the antibiotic treatment may not fully treat your bacterial infection.
Penicillin uses
There are many FDA-approved uses for penicillin, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online medical professional may prescribe it for the following reasons.
It’s also possible that your healthcare provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. Ask your online doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.
Respiratory tract infections
Penicillin is FDA-approved to treat respiratory tract infections caused by Streptococcal bacteria, including throat infections, scarlet fever, and pharyngitis (sore throat).
Ear infections
Penicillin is FDA-approved to treat ear infections caused by bacteria, including otitis media, swimmer's ear, and labyrinthitis.
Urinary tract infections
Penicillin is FDA-approved to treat urinary tract infections caused by bacteria. Assess your condition and explore online UTI treatment options.
Sexually transmitted infections
Penicillin is FDA-approved to treat sexually transmitted infections, including syphilis and gonorrhea.
Dental abscesses
Penicillin is FDA-approved to treat localized dental abscesses (tooth infections).
How to take penicillin
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your penicillin prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions. The way you take penicillin will depend on the form in which it is available. Here are some general guidelines:
Oral penicillin: This type is taken by mouth and is usually available as capsules, tablets, or liquid suspension. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the dosage and frequency recommendations on the medication label.
Injection penicillin: This type of penicillin is usually given in a healthcare setting by a healthcare provider. If prescribed an injection, your healthcare provider will administer the medication and provide instructions on any aftercare required.
Topical penicillin: This penicillin is usually applied to the skin through ointments, creams, or gels. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the frequency and duration of use recommendations on the medication label.
It is vital to take penicillin as directed and complete the entire course of medication, even if you feel better before it is finished. This will help ensure the infection is fully treated and reduce the likelihood of developing antibiotic resistance. If you have any questions or concerns about how to take penicillin, consult your healthcare provider.
Penicillin side effects
The side effects associated with taking penicillin are typically mild. Most penicillin side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort. Penicillin has some common side effects. They may include:
Nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain
Vaginal itching or discharge
Headache
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Watery or bloody diarrhea
Fever, chills, and body aches
Severe skin rash or itching
You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. The use of penicillin antibiotics to treat infections is approved in younger children.
What to avoid while taking penicillin
When taking penicillin, there are some things that you should avoid to maximize the effectiveness of the medication and minimize the risk of side effects. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Alcohol: It is generally recommended to avoid drinking alcohol while taking penicillin. Alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of the medication and increase the risk of side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, and vomiting.
Dairy products: Penicillin can interact with calcium in dairy products, reducing the absorption of the medication into the bloodstream. It is recommended to avoid consuming dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt for at least two hours before or after taking penicillin.
Antacids: Antacids that contain aluminum, magnesium, or calcium can also interfere with the absorption of penicillin into the bloodstream. If you need to take an antacid, doing so at least two hours before or after taking penicillin is recommended.
Grapefruit juice: Grapefruit juice can interact with penicillin and increase the risk of side effects. It is recommended to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking penicillin.
Other medications: Some medications can interact with penicillin, so it is important to inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking. This includes prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements.
Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the medication label when taking penicillin, and do not hesitate to ask questions or seek guidance if you have any concerns.
Medication alternatives to penicillin
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest other antibiotics in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Respiratory tract infections
Ear infections
Augmentin (amoxicillin and clavulanate)Cortisporin (neomycin/polymyxin b/hydrocortisone)
Ciprodex (ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone)
Urinary tract infections
Sexually transmitted infections
Ceftriaxone
Zithromax (azithromycin)Dental abscesses
Penicillin Prescription FAQs
How much does penicillin cost?
Depending on your pharmacy, penicillin costs around $12 for six 500 mg oral tablets without insurance.
How can I refill my penicillin prescription?
To refill your penicillin prescription, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After reviewing your symptoms and medical history, your healthcare provider can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.
Who should not take penicillin?
To make sure penicillin is safe for you, tell o your doctor if you have:
Asthma
Penicillin allergy
Kidney disease
Bleeding or blood clotting disorder
History of diarrhea caused by antibiotics
What happens if I miss a dose of penicillin?
If you miss a dose of penicillin, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.
What happens if I take too much penicillin?
If you've taken too much penicillin, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
What is penicillin used for?
Broad-spectrum penicillins are used to treat bacterial infections such as strep throat infections, urinary tract infections, ear infections, sinus infections, and more.
Where is penicillin found?
Penicillin is found in penicillin mold, which naturally produces penicillin.
What is the drug name for penicillin?
Commonly prescribed penicillins include amoxicillin, oxacillin, and ampicillin.
Can you buy penicillin over the counter?
No, you cannot buy penicillin over the counter. You'll need a prescription from a licensed medical doctor before you can buy penicillin antibiotics.
Fortunately, it's easy to book an online appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors, who can prescribe penicillin. Once you have a prescription, you can buy penicillin from a reputable online pharmacy or pick it up in person.Where can I buy penicillin?
Penicillin is not available over the counter, but licensed medical doctors can prescribe penicillin online.
Get penicillin prescribed online by booking an appointment with one of our board-certified doctors. During your phone or video appointment, the doctor will decide if penicillin is right for you. The physician will then send your prescription to your local pharmacy, allowing you to buy the penicillin antibiotic you need.What does penicillin do?
Penicillin prevents bacteria from building a cell wall so they are unable to multiply and eventually die off. Cell walls are necessary for the survival of bacteria as they hold the bacterial cell together.
What are the risks associated with penicillin?
The most serious risk associated with penicillin treatment is antibiotic resistance. If you don't finish the entire course of treatment, the infection may worsen due to antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
3 simple steps to request your Penicillin prescription today
Step 1
Book a penicillin prescription request appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your penicillin prescription.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up penicillin, if prescribed.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Penicillin prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a penicillin prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
Copay
For all visits
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
- We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
$129
Repeats only $99
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129 and follow-ups are only $99 for active members.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Penicillin prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Food and Drug Administration. Penicillin V prescription label. Accessed on October 19, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/064071s006lbl.pdf
Mayo Clinic. Penicillin (Oral Route, Injection Route, Intravenous Route, Intramuscular Route). Accessed on October 19, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/penicillin-oral-route-injection-route-intravenous-route-intramuscular-route/description/drg-20062334
National Library of Medicine. Penicillin. Accessed on October 19, 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554560/#:~:text=Penicillin%20is%20a%20medication%20used,valuable%20agent%20in%20treating%20infection.