• Infection in the bloodstream is the leading cause of death in young children with sickle cell disease 
• Taking penicillin by mouth 2 times a day every day can greatly decrease the risk of infection in the bloodstream 
• Your child's best defense to prevent bloodstream infections is to take penicillin 2 times a day every day 
• Penicillin should be started by 2 - 3 months of age, and stopped by your child's physician, usually by age 5 years 
• Liquid penicillin is often easier to give young children, but is also available in tablet form 
• Liquid penicillin must be stored in the refrigerator and it must not be kept for longer than 2 weeks 
• Liquid penicillin should be measured using a dosing syringe, given to you by your nurse or pharmacist. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon because it is not accurate 
• Penicillin tablets should be stored in a cool, dry place. Tablets may be kept as long as 4 months 
• Don't take a chance with your child's health; give penicillin 2 times a day, every day

 

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