UsesUsed to treat bacterial infection
Mechanism of ActionIt kills the bacteria by interrupting the bacterial cell wall (outer coating of bacteria) formation due to whichthe bacterial cell wall is weakened and ruptures, thereby killing the bacteria
DosageAdult: IV/IM- The recommended dose is 1 to 6 gm in 3 divided doses Child- 30 mg/kg/day
Side EffectsNausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain or cramps, flatulence, colitis, including colon infection Pus in urine, kidney dysfunction, absence of urine, reversible interstitial inflammation of kidney, blood in urine, toxic kidney disease Increase in white blood cell, eosinophils and lymphocytes, decrease in nuetrophils, decreased platelet function, decreases red blood cells, insufficiency of new blood cells, bleeding Liver function impairment, jaundice, abnormal liver function test results Hypersensitivity, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, erythema multiforme, toxic detachment of skin layers, overgrowth, serum sickness–like reactions (eg, skin rashes, joint pain, fever), inflammation of veins, and pain at injection site
Warnings/PrecautionsCaution needed for patients with history of penicillin allergy; severe kidney problem; pregnancy, lactation Long-term or repeated use of this medication may cause a secondary infection It only works against bacteria; it does not treat viral infections (eg, the common cold) Do not treat diarrhea without first checking with your doctor Hormonal birth control (eg, birth control pills) may not work as well while you are using this medication