Betapen-VK: Side Effects, Overdose and Pregnancy Information

Main ingredient in Betapen-VK is Penicillin V. Betapen-VK is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections, including sinusitis, strep throat, pneumonia, respiratory tract, ear infections, dental abscesses, and skin infections. Betapen-VK may also be used to treat STDs like gonorrhea and syphilis, infections of the genital and urinary tract. Betapen-VK kills bacteria by destroying the cell walls of the invading microorganisms. However, antibiotics like Betapen-VK are not effective against viruses and fungi and there are a number of bacteria, the so-called super bugs,that are resistant to penicillin antibiotics including Betapen-VK. Betapen-VK injection is used to treat more serious infections.

BETAPEN-VK SIDE EFFECTS

Side effects of Betapen-VK may include upset stomach, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, colitis, confusion, convulsions, dizziness, hives, liver problems and jaundice, fungal infections, rash, tooth discoloration in children, and appetite loss.

BETAPEN-VK CAUTION

If you are allergic to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics, check with your physician before taking Betapen-VK.

People with Cystic fibrosis are more prone to side effects from penicillin antibiotic like Betapen-VK.

Those who are using oral contraceptives should switch to other methods of contraceptives while taking Betapen-VK.

BETAPEN-VK WARNING

If you have ever had asthma, hives, hay fever, or other allergic reaction to penicillin consult with your physician before taking Betapen-VK.

Stop taking Betapen-VK if you experience reactions such as rash, fever, itching, joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, and or sores on the genitals.

It is imperative to take Betapen-VK for the entire course your physician has prescribed. Even if you feel better, you should to continue taking Betapen-VK.

Tell your physician if you have ever had asthma, colitis, diabetes, or kidney or liver disease before taking Betapen-VK.

BETAPEN-VK AND PREGNANCY

Betapen-VK is considered generally safe during pregnancy and breast-feeding. However, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your physician before taking Betapen-VK.

Nursing mothers should switch to bottle-feed while taking Betapen-VK as it could cause diarrhea in infants.

BETAPEN-VK INTERACTION

Check with your doctor before combining Betapen-VK with the following:

Antacids
Beta-blockers
Blood thinning drugs
Chloramphenicol
Erythromycin
NSAIDs like Aleve or ibuprofen
Oral contraceptives
Probenecid
Tetracycline
Do not take Betapen-VK with carbonated drinks or fruit juices.

Betapen-VK may cause vitamin deficiency. It is recommended to take daily multivitamins while taking Betapen-VK.

BETAPEN-VK DOSES

ADULTS
125-500 mg every 6-8 hours.
People with sever kidney disease should not take more than 250 mg every 6 hours.

CHILDREN UNDER 12
12-25 mg per pound of body weight/day divided into 3-4 doses.

BETAPEN-VK OVERDOSE

Symptoms of Betapen-VK overdose may include short breath, diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, and vomiting.

If you suspect an Betapen-VK overdose, seek medical attention right away.

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