A 5-year-old child is prescribed oral phenoxymethylpenicillin for scarlet fever. The parent says the child feels better after two doses and asks

Question

A 5-year-old child is prescribed oral phenoxymethylpenicillin for scarlet fever. The parent says the child feels better after two doses and asks whether to save the rest for future sore throats. What would you advise the patient?

Accepted Answer

Complete the prescribed course and seek review if symptoms worsen or complications develop

Answer

Stop after symptoms improve and keep the bottle for later use

Answer

Share remaining antibiotic with siblings if they develop sore throat

Answer

Use half doses to reduce stomach upset while finishing later

Answer

Switch to ibuprofen alone because antibiotics are unnecessary after improvement

Scarlet fever antibiotic adherence — GPhC CRA MCQ

A 5-year-old child is prescribed oral phenoxymethylpenicillin for scarlet fever. The parent says the child feels better after two doses and asks whether to save the rest for future sore throats. What would you advise the patient?