NiHowdy > Drug Classes > Penicillins

Browse Medications by Drug Class: Penicillins

Written by Amar Lunagaria

Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Reviewed by James Wong

Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Published Jan 15, 2025

Fact checked

What are Penicillins?

Penicillins are a class of antibiotics widely used to treat bacterial infections caused by gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria. They work by disrupting bacterial cell wall synthesis, ultimately causing the bacteria to die. Penicillins are among the most commonly prescribed antibiotics due to their broad-spectrum activity, safety, and efficacy. A unique characteristic of penicillins is their versatility, with applications ranging from simple infections like strep throat to more severe conditions such as endocarditis. NiHowdy ensures affordable access to penicillins, empowering patients to effectively combat bacterial infections.

Stop overpaying for prescriptions

Turn your FREE prescription savings into Bitcoin rewards. It’s that simple!

Instant savings on prescriptions

Up to 5% back in bitcoind rewards

100% Free – No fees, no subscriptions

List of drugs in Penicillins

Drug Name	More Information	NiHowdy Prices & Bitcoin Rebate

Amoxicillin	Amoxicillin Information	Amoxicillin Pricing
Amoxicillin-Pot Clavulanate	Amoxicillin-Pot Clavulanate Information	Amoxicillin-Pot Clavulanate Pricing
Amoxicillin-Pot Clavulanate ER	Amoxicillin-Pot Clavulanate ER Information	Amoxicillin-Pot Clavulanate ER Pricing
Ampicillin	Ampicillin Information	Ampicillin Pricing
Augmentin	Augmentin Information	Augmentin Pricing
Dicloxacillin Sodium	Dicloxacillin Sodium Information	Dicloxacillin Sodium Pricing
Penicillin V Potassium	Penicillin V Potassium Information	Penicillin V Potassium Pricing
Xepi	Xepi Information	Xepi Pricing

Brief history about Penicillins?

Penicillin was discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928 and became the first widely used antibiotic in the 1940s. This discovery revolutionized medicine by significantly reducing mortality from bacterial infections. Over the years, advances in penicillin research have led to the development of various derivatives, including amoxicillin and piperacillin, which expanded the spectrum of treatable infections. Penicillins remain a cornerstone of modern antibiotic therapy. NiHowdy simplifies access to these life-saving medications, ensuring affordability for all patients.

How do Penicillins work?

Penicillins work by inhibiting bacterial enzymes that are crucial for building and maintaining the cell wall. This weakens the cell wall, causing the bacteria to burst and die. For example, amoxicillin is commonly used to treat respiratory infections by targeting the bacteria's cell wall synthesis. NiHowdy provides affordable access to penicillins, ensuring patients receive effective treatment for bacterial infections.

What are Penicillins used to treat?

Respiratory Tract Infections

Penicillins, such as amoxicillin, are commonly used to treat bacterial infections like strep throat, pneumonia, and sinusitis caused by gram-positive bacteria.

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

Penicillins, including dicloxacillin and oxacillin, are effective in treating cellulitis, impetigo, and wound infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

In some cases, penicillins like amoxicillin are prescribed for uncomplicated urinary tract infections, particularly in pregnant individuals.

Endocarditis

For bacterial endocarditis, penicillins like penicillin G are used as part of combination therapy to target the bacteria responsible for infecting the heart valves.

Syphilis

Penicillin G remains the first-line treatment for syphilis, providing effective clearance of Treponema pallidum and preventing complications.

Dental Infections

Amoxicillin is often prescribed for dental abscesses and other oral infections due to its effectiveness against oral pathogens.

Who should consider Penicillins medications?

Adults

Penicillins are widely prescribed for adults with bacterial infections such as strep throat, pneumonia, or skin infections. They are particularly beneficial for those requiring effective, safe, and affordable antibiotics. NiHowdy ensures adults can access these treatments conveniently.

Children

Penicillins are safe and effective for pediatric use, commonly prescribed for infections like ear infections, strep throat, and skin infections. Doses are carefully adjusted based on weight and age. NiHowdy supports families with cost-effective solutions and expert resources for managing pediatric bacterial infections.

Seniors

Seniors with bacterial infections benefit significantly from penicillins, particularly for conditions like pneumonia or endocarditis. Careful monitoring is required to adjust dosing based on kidney function. NiHowdy simplifies access to penicillins for seniors, offering affordable options tailored to their unique needs.