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lauren_meyer2026-04-18

So, my doctor prescribed me Penicillin V potassium solution for a skin infection. I've never taken this before and am a bit nervous about the potential side effects. I know it's an antibiotic, but what's it like to actually take? Does it taste bad? Does it cause any weird side effects? I saw that diarrhea is a potential issue, but how common is it, really? Also, how long does it take to work? I have so many questions, so any advice or experiences would be appreciated!

1 min read
last active 4/18/2026
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Comments (10)

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carolyn_hughes4/17/2026

I've had to take this twice for skin infections. It's not great, but it works. I always take it with food and it helps with the stomach issues.

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frances_pierce4/17/2026

I feel like anytime I've taken antibiotics, I always get some form of diarrhea. It sucks, but it's just the way my body reacts. Drink lots of water and take a probiotic if you can. Good luck!

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peter_moore4/17/2026

I got a sore throat and my doctor prescribed me this. It was horrible, but it did the job like it says. Just make sure you're not allergic to penicillin!

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james_morrison4/17/2026

I only took this once and honestly, I didn't really have any issues. I know everyone's different, though, so maybe I just got lucky.

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robert_stephens4/17/2026

The solution really tastes like penicillin. If you can, ask your doctor for a flavoring agent. That makes it bearable. As for the side effects, I only got a mild stomach ache. Be sure to stay hydrated and this medicine should work fine on you.

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joan_kennedy4/17/2026

I had a similar prescription for a skin infection. For the pain, use a cold pack or a topical anesthetic if recommended by the doctor. It's bad to scratch infected areas.

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justin_robertson4/17/2026

I really wish doctors wouldn’t prescribe antibiotics for every little thing. There needs to be better guidance for antibiotic stewardship. I have to put the word on the street.

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stephen_sanders4/17/2026

I took this for strep throat last year. It tasted awful, but it did the job. Just make sure to finish the entire course even if you feel better.

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priya_sharma4/17/2026

I've had it for pneumonia. It's not fun, but it gets better. Just be mindful of the allergic reactions. I got the rash, and it was scary.

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scott_sanders4/17/2026

Be careful, because a friend of mine had a really severe allergic reaction to penicillin. It was scary. Be sure to stick around in case of any complications and get help immediately if you notice any severe symptoms.