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Pivmecillinam is a penicillin-type antibiotic used to treat infections of the bladder and urinary tract, including cystitis. It is the active ingredient in the branded medicine Selexid.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when bacteria get into the urethra and bladder. Common symptoms include a burning or stinging feeling when you pass urine, needing to pass urine more often or more urgently, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine.
UK guidance recommends pivmecillinam as a second-choice antibiotic for uncomplicated lower UTIs in women, for use when a first-choice antibiotic is not suitable or has not worked.
Once absorbed, pivmecillinam is converted into mecillinam, which damages the cell wall of the bacteria that cause the infection so they cannot survive.
It is particularly effective against E. coli, the most common cause of urine infections.
We supply pivmecillinam as 200mg tablets in a pack of 10.
For an uncomplicated UTI in adults, take 2 tablets straight away, then 1 tablet every 8 hours until all 10 tablets in the pack have been taken.
Our prescriber will confirm the right course for you based on your consultation.
Most people notice their symptoms improving within a few days. Take each dose during or after a meal and swallow the tablets whole with at least half a glass of water while sitting or standing.
Keep taking the tablets until the course is finished, even if you feel better. If your symptoms have not improved or they get worse, speak to a doctor or pharmacist.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember, during or after a meal if possible, then carry on with your usual schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
If you take too much, contact a doctor or your nearest hospital emergency department straight away and take the pack with you.
Nitrofurantoin and trimethoprim are the first-choice antibiotics for uncomplicated UTIs. Pivmecillinam is usually chosen when one of these is not suitable or has not cleared the infection. Our prescriber will choose the most appropriate option for you.
Pivmecillinam is not known to reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraception. If you have vomiting or severe diarrhoea while taking it, follow the advice in your contraceptive pill leaflet, as this can stop the pill from being absorbed.
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhoea and vaginal thrush. Stop taking it and get medical advice straight away if you develop a blistering or peeling rash, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty swallowing, or severe or persistent diarrhoea.
No. Pivmecillinam is a prescription-only medicine. You can request it from Westbury Chemist by completing an online consultation, which our prescriber will review before your treatment is supplied.
Pivmecillinam isn't right for everyone. It should not be taken if you are allergic to penicillins or cephalosporins, have a narrowing of the oesophagus, have a condition that lowers carnitine levels, or take valproate for epilepsy. Here's all the official information on it. If anything doesn't make sense, just let our clinician know, and they can discuss it with you.
Medicines can cause side effects. Always read the leaflet that comes with your medication and report any side effects to your pharmacist.
The electronic medicines compendium (emc) publishes the official leaflets for licensed UK medicines.
Every online consultation is reviewed by one of our pharmacists before any medicine is supplied. Each clinician is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council, and you can check their registration using the Verify link.
Superintendent Pharmacist and Independent Prescriber
Leads clinical governance at Westbury Chemist. Clinical interests include acute respiratory conditions, urinary tract infections and musculoskeletal conditions.
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber
Clinical interests include ear, nose and throat conditions, high blood pressure and weight management.
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber
Clinical interests include asthma, COPD and the management of long-term conditions.
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