infections
Penicillins
Introduction
Penicillins are a subclass of Overview of Antibiotics called beta-lactam antibiotics (antibiotics that have a chemical structure called a beta-lactam ring). Penicillins are used to treat infections caused by Staining and Examination Using a Microscope (such as Penicillins include the following: Amoxicillin Ampicillin Carbenicillin Dicloxacillin Nafcillin Oxacillin Penicillin G Penicillin V Piperacillin Ticarcillin Most bacteria have an outer covering (cell wall) that protects them. Like the other beta-lactam antibiotics, penicillins work by preventing bacteria from forming this cell wall, resulting in death of the bacteria. Some bacteria produce enzymes that can inactivate beta-lactam antibiotics. For infections caused by these bacteria, penicillins are given with a drug that can inhibit these enzymes, such as clavulanate or sulbactam. Common combinations include the following: Ampicillin/sulbactam Amoxicillin/clavulanate Piperacillin/tazobactam Ticarcillin plus clavulanate Some penicillins can be given by mouth (for example,amoxicillinandpenicillin V) or by injection (for example,piperacillin). Others (such asampicillin) can be given either way. is Drug Absorption into the bloodstream better, has fewer gastrointestinal side effects, and can be given less frequently. Drug Drug Common Uses Common Uses Some Potential Side Effects Some Potential Side Effects Amoxicillin Ampicillin Carbenicillin Cloxacillin Dicloxacillin Flucloxacillin Nafcillin Oxacillin Penicillin G Penicillin V Piperacillin Ticarcillin Wide range of infections, including Streptococcal Infections , enterococcal infections, Dicloxacillin,nafcillin, andoxacillin: Most often used to treat staphylococcal infections Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea* Allergies to Drugs , such as rash and hives, with serious Brain and kidney damage (rare) * Almost any antibiotic can cause Clostridioides (formerly Clostridium) difficile–Induced Colitis and inflammation of the colon (colitis), but (See also Overview of Antibiotics .) 