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If you have a specific, personal health issue, contact your healthcare provider. University of Iowa students can call 335-8394 to schedule an appointment.

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What are the side effects of penicillin?

Penicillin is used to treat infections that are caused by bacterins by either killing them or preventing their growth. There are several different kinds of penicillin to treat a variety of bacteria. Penicillin is only available thru prescription and is best to be taken with a full glass (8 oz.) of water on an empty stomach.

To help clear up the infection completely, keep taking the medicine for the full time of treatment, even if you begin to feel better after a few days. If you stop taking the medicine too soon, your symptoms may return.

As far as the side effects go, the most common one is mild diarrhea. Another precaution is if you are taking birth control pills containing estrogen; the contraceptive may not work properly if taking them while you are taking ampicillin, amoxicillin, or penicillin V. You should use a different or additional means of birth control while you are taking any of these medicines. Other effects may include:
• Headache
• Sore mouth or tongue
• Vaginal itching & discharge
• White patches in the mouth and/or on the tongue

If you notice any other side effect, check with your healthcare professional. Make an appointment to see a physician at Student Health Service by calling 335.8394.

For further information on penicillin, please visit Penicillin

 

Amanda Truppe, B.A.
Graduate Assistant
Health Iowa/Student Health Service

12/5/08
 

Question Link : http://www.uistudenthealth.com/question/default.aspx?q=1053