Treat Sinusitis With Phenoxymethylpenicillin
Learn how Phenoxymethylpenicillin treats Sinusitis, how to use it safely, who it's suitable for, and what results to expect. When clinically appropriate, our trained clinicians can assess your symptoms online and provide treatment without needing a GP appointment.
MEDICAL INFORMATION
Phenoxymethylpenicillin Key Facts
Who Manufactures Phenoxymethylpenicillin?
Phenoxymethylpenicillin is manufactured by various generic manufacturers approved by the MHRA.
What Form is Phenoxymethylpenicillin available in?
Phenoxymethylpenicillin is available as tablets or as an oral suspension.
How do I store Phenoxymethylpenicillin?
Store Phenoxymethylpenicillin tablets at room temperature. Store Phenoxymethylpenicillin suspension in the fridge once made up, at temperatures between 2 and 8 degrees, as specified by the manufacturer.
What is Phenoxymethylpenicillin used for?
Phenoxymethylpenicillin is used for the treatment of acute bacterial sinusitis (rhinosinusitis) under the NHS England commissioned Pharmacy First service.
How does Phenoxymethylpenicillin work?
Phenoxymethylpenicillin is an antibiotic that stops the growth and spread of penicillin sensitive bacteria.
When will I feel better and what should I do if I do not get better?
You should start to feel better within a few days of taking Phenoxymethylpenicillin. However, if your symptoms do not improve or get worse, call your doctor.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Phenoxymethylpenicillin?
You can drink alcohol with Phenoxymethylpenicillin. However, not drinking alcohol will help you get over your infection quicker.
Do I need to take Phenoxymethylpenicillin with food?
It is better not to take Phenoxymethylpenicillin with meals, as food can stop it from working well. Take Phenoxymethylpenicillin 30 minutes before or at least 2 hours after you have eaten.
Who can and cannot take Phenoxymethylpenicillin?
You may take Phenoxymethylpenicillin if you meet the inclusion criteria for sinusitis for the Pharmacy First service, but may not take Phenoxymethylpenicillin if you meet the exclusion criteria for sinusitis for the Pharmacy First service.
How often do I need to take Phenoxymethylpenicillin?
Children 12-17 years of age and adults should take 500 mg of Phenoxymethylpenicillin four times a day, for 5 days.
What are the side effects of Phenoxymethylpenicillin?
Side effects of Phenoxymethylpenicillin include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, skin reactions, hypersensitivity, and low blood platelet levels.
Are there any Interactions of Phenoxymethylpenicillin with other drugs?
Phenoxymethylpenicillin interacts with drugs such as methotrexate, probenecid, and the Typhoid vaccine.
Other important information about Phenoxymethylpenicillin
Take Phenoxymethylpenicillin regularly and finish the course even if your symptoms improve. In the event of an adverse reaction or if any other new symptoms develop seek medical advice..
Does Phenoxymethylpenicillin interfere with conception and contraception?
Phenoxymethylpenicillin does not affect fertility and does not stop contraception from working. If however, Phenoxymethylpenicillin is not working for you and you're being sick, your contraceptive pills may not prevent you from becoming pregnant.
Can I use Phenoxymethylpenicillin when breast feeding?
While adverse effects are not common, Phenoxymethylpenicillin may cause changes in the bowel flora and have direct effects on the nursing infant, such as allergy or sensitisation. Monitor your baby for gastro-intestinal disturbances, nausea, hypersensitivity, rashes and oral thrush when breastfeeding and taking Phenoxymethylpenicillin.
Can I use Phenoxymethylpenicillin if I am pregnant or planning to become pregnant?
Caution should be exercised when prescribing Phenoxymethylpenicillin to pregnant patients. Please note, Phenoxymethylpenicillin is excluded from the Pharmacy First service for the treatment of sinusitis if you are pregnant or suspect you are pregnant and are under the age of 16.
Medical Disclaimer
NowPatient has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that all material is factually accurate, complete, and current. However, the knowledge and experience of a qualified healthcare professional should always be sought after instead of using the information on this page. Before taking any drug, you should always speak to your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.
The information provided here about medications is subject to change and is not meant to include all uses, precautions, warnings, directions, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or negative effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a particular medication does not imply that the medication or medication combination is appropriate for all patients or for all possible purposes.
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FAQs
Answers to Popular Questions About How Phenoxymethylpenicillin Treats Sinusitis
What is Phenoxymethylpenicillin and how is it used for acute sinusitis?
Phenoxymethylpenicillin (penicillin V) is a narrow-spectrum penicillin antibiotic and is a first-line option for acute bacterial sinusitis per NICE guidance. It is effective against Streptococcus pneumoniae, the most common bacterial cause of acute sinusitis. It is available as 250 mg and 500 mg tablets and as an oral solution for children. Through Pharmacy First, pharmacists can supply phenoxymethylpenicillin for sinusitis without a GP appointment.
What is the dose of Phenoxymethylpenicillin for sinusitis?
Adults: 500 mg four times daily for 5 days. Children: dose is age and weight-based. Take on an empty stomach (at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after food) for best absorption. Space doses evenly (approximately every 6 hours). Complete the full 5-day course.
Can I get Phenoxymethylpenicillin through Pharmacy First?
Yes, the NHS Pharmacy First service allows pharmacists to assess acute sinusitis and supply phenoxymethylpenicillin where antibiotics are clinically indicated. If you have a penicillin allergy, the pharmacist will offer an alternative such as clarithromycin or doxycycline. This is a free NHS service.
What are the side effects of Phenoxymethylpenicillin?
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, and skin rash. Allergic reactions can occur — penicillin allergy affects approximately 1–10% of the population. Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are rare but potentially life-threatening. Do not take phenoxymethylpenicillin if you have a history of penicillin allergy.
Who should not take Phenoxymethylpenicillin?
Anyone with a confirmed penicillin allergy should not take phenoxymethylpenicillin. Alternative antibiotics for sinusitis in penicillin-allergic patients include clarithromycin, erythromycin, or doxycycline. Inform the pharmacist of any previous allergic reactions to antibiotics.
Experienced a Side Effect?
Report to Yellow Card (UK) or MedWatch (US)
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