Antibiotic
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Penicillin is an antibiotic that works by killing bacteria responsible for infections — it stops the bacteria from building their protective walls, so they die off and your body can recover.
Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins and preventing peptidoglycan cross-linking, leading to cell wall rupture and bacterial death.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For Penicillin V tablets (the oral form), the usual adult dose is 250mg to 500mg taken every 6 hours (4 times a day). Take it on an empty stomach — at least 30 minutes before food or 2 hours after food — for best results. Swallow with a full glass of water and always complete the full course your doctor or pharmacist prescribed, even if you feel better.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take two doses at once to make up for it.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Always complete the full course of penicillin your doctor prescribed — stopping early because you feel better can cause the infection to come back stronger and become resistant to treatment. Do not buy antibiotics from roadside sellers or open markets, as they may be fake or expired — purchase from a reputable pharmacy. Never share your penicillin with someone else, even if they seem to have the same symptoms as you.
Penicillin can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills, so use an additional method of contraception while taking it. Methotrexate (used for arthritis or cancer) can become more toxic when taken with penicillin. Blood-thinning drugs like warfarin may have stronger effects when combined with penicillin — inform your doctor if you take any of these.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Penicillin with your other drugs?
Penicillin is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but always consult your doctor before taking it to confirm it is appropriate for your situation.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid keeping it near windows or in your car. Keep the tablets in their original container and always store out of reach of children. If you have the liquid form, keep it in the fridge and throw away any leftover after 14 days.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.