Phenoxymethylpenicillin is a narrow spectrum antibiotic also commonly referred to as Penicillin V or Penicillin VK.[A178609] It is a phenoxymethyl analog of Penicillin G, or [benzylpenicillin]. An orally active naturally penicillin, phenoxymethylpenicillin is used to treat mild to moderate infections in the respiratory tract, skin, and soft tissues caused by penicillin G-sensitive microorganisms. Phenoxymethylpenicillin has also be used in some cases as prophylaxis against susceptible organisms. While there have been no controlled clinical efficacy studies that were conducted, phenoxymethylpenicillin has been suggested by the American Heart Association and the American Dental Association for use as an oral regimen for prophylaxis against bacterial endocarditis in patients with congenital heart disease or rheumatic or other acquired valvular heart disease when they undergo dental procedures and surgical procedures of the upper respiratory tract, except for those who are at an elevated risk for endocarditis.[label]
Indicated for the treatment of mild to moderately severe infections due to penicillin G-sensitive microorganisms, with the use of bacteriological studies (including sensitivity tests) and clinical response.[label] Phenoxymethylpenicillin may be used for the treatment of: - mild to moderate infections of the upper respiratory tract, scarlet fever, and mild erysipelas caused by Streptococcus without bacteremia - mild to moderately severe infections of the respiratory tract caused by Pneumococcus - mild infections of the skin and soft tissues caused by penicillin G-sensitive Staphylococcus - mild to moderately severe infections of the oropharynx caused by Fusospirochetosis, including Vincent’s gingivitis and pharyngitis, usually respond to oral penicillin therapy **Off-label** Indicated for use as prophylaxis against bacterial endocarditis in patients with congenital heart disease or rheumatic or other acquired valvular heart disease when they undergo dental procedures and surgical procedures of the upper respiratory tract.[label]
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