Penicillin

Derived from mold
Prevents cell from forming cell wall

• Prototype: amoxicillin, penicillin G, ampicillin
• no acidic fruits and juices
• Penicillin combined w/ beta-lactamase inhibitors: Augmentin, Zosyn, Timentin
• amplifies antimicrobial effect

Common drug allergy/hypersensitivity, drug-resistance issue, generally safe in pregnancy

General Antimicrobial guidelines:

• Any medication allergy should be reported to the healthcare provider.
• Fluids should be encouraged with antibiotic therapy.
• To obtain the most accurate culture, culture should be obtained before antibiotic therapy begins.
• The entire course of the medication should be taken to ensure eradication of the infection and decreased resistance, even if the client’s symptoms has normalized.