Phenoxymethyl penicillin — acid-stable natural penicillin suitable for oral administration. Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding PBPs. Narrow spectrum: streptococci, most anaerobes, and some gram-negatives. Susceptible to staphylococcal beta-lactamase.
At a glance
Class
Natural Penicillin (Oral)
Storage
Store at room temperature; oral solution refrigerated, use within 14 days
Dosing
Used for streptococcal infections, anaerobic infections, and prophylaxis
Used for streptococcal infections
Safety
Clinical responseGI tolerance
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Penicillin V?
Penicillin V is a natural penicillin (oral) used in pets. Phenoxymethyl penicillin — acid-stable natural penicillin suitable for oral administration. Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding PBPs. Narrow spectrum: streptococci, most anaerobes, and some gram-negatives. Susceptible to staphylococcal beta-lactamase.
›What is Penicillin V used for in pets?
Penicillin V is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for streptococcal infections, anaerobic infections, and prophylaxis; Used for streptococcal infections.
›What is the Penicillin V dose for dogs?
For dogs, Penicillin V is typically dosed as follows — Used for streptococcal infections, anaerobic infections, and prophylaxis: 10–30 mg/kg PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Penicillin V dose for cats?
For cats, Penicillin V is typically dosed as follows — Used for streptococcal infections: 10–15 mg/kg PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Penicillin V need a prescription?
Yes. Penicillin V is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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