Absorption of oral penicillin before and after gastroplasty for morbid obesity.

Gastroplasty for morbid obesity results in a small proximal pouch with a narrow stoma to the distal stomach. Absorption of phenoxymethylpenicillin given in tablets and liquid form was evaluated in 8 females before and 3 months after gastroplasty. Penicillin absorption was not affected to any significant extent. Oral penicillin can therefore safely be given for the treatment of infections in patients after gastroplasty.