About pivmecillinam
Penicillin antibiotic
Used for
- Urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria
Usual adult dose
Usually 400 mg three times daily for 3–7 days, depending on infection and local guidance.
Usual dose in children
For children aged 6 years and older, dosing depends on age and weight; specialist guidance is needed.
Common side effects
- Nausea or diarrhoea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Rash
- Rare allergic reactions
Important warnings
- Avoid with allergy to penicillin antibiotics.
- Long-term use can cause carnitine deficiency, especially with poor nutrition or kidney problems.
- Tell clinicians about severe or persistent diarrhoea.
- Not suitable for some rare metabolic disorders affecting carnitine.
Pregnancy
Can be used during pregnancy when clinically appropriate; a clinician should assess suitability.
Breastfeeding
Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding; monitor the infant for diarrhoea or rash.
Interactions
- Methotrexate: may increase methotrexate toxicity.
- Valproate or other carnitine-lowering medicines: may increase carnitine deficiency risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.