- Body system
- Anti-infectives
- Name stem
- -cillin
- Drug cards
- 1 in this guide
Drugs in this class
Other examples: Penicillin G, Penicillin V, Ampicillin, Piperacillin-tazobactam, Nafcillin, Amoxicillin-clavulanate.
How penicillins work
Bind penicillin-binding proteins and block bacterial cell wall synthesis (bactericidal). Beta-lactamase inhibitors (clavulanate, tazobactam, sulbactam) protect them from bacterial enzymes.
Uses
- Strep throat and ear infections
- Pneumonia
- Syphilis (penicillin G)
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Serious hospital infections (piperacillin-tazobactam)
Adverse effects
- Allergic reactions from rash to anaphylaxis
- Diarrhea and C. difficile
- Yeast infections
- Seizures at very high doses
Nursing considerations
- Ask about allergies and obtain cultures before the first dose when ordered.
- Observe for 30 minutes after an injection given in a clinic.
- Monitor kidney function with high IV doses.
Patient teaching
- Finish the full course.
- Report hives, wheezing or swelling right away.
- Wear medical alert identification if allergic.
Penicillins NCLEX practice questions
Answer each question to see the rationale.
3 questions. Choose an answer to see the rationale.
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Before giving the first dose of IV ampicillin, what is the most important action?
Show answer
Answer D: Ask about drug allergies Penicillins are a common cause of anaphylaxis. Allergy history comes first, followed by cultures if ordered.
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Which suffix identifies a penicillin?
Show answer
Answer D: -cillin Penicillins end in -cillin (amoxicillin, ampicillin, piperacillin).
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Ten minutes into an IV penicillin infusion, the patient develops wheezing and hives. What is the priority?
Show answer
Answer D: Stop the infusion, maintain the airway and call for help; give epinephrine as ordered This is anaphylaxis. Stop the drug, protect the airway, and give IM epinephrine per protocol.
Frequently asked questions
What are penicillins?
Penicillins (the -cillin drugs) are beta-lactam antibiotics. Allergy is the main concern: ask before every first dose and watch for anaphylaxis.
How do penicillins work?
Bind penicillin-binding proteins and block bacterial cell wall synthesis (bactericidal). Beta-lactamase inhibitors (clavulanate, tazobactam, sulbactam) protect them from bacterial enzymes.
What are examples of penicillins?
Amoxicillin, Penicillin G, Penicillin V, Ampicillin, Piperacillin-tazobactam, Nafcillin and Amoxicillin-clavulanate.
What are the nursing considerations for penicillins?
Ask about allergies and obtain cultures before the first dose when ordered. Observe for 30 minutes after an injection given in a clinic.