Medicine Information

Benzapen

Name: Benzapen
Brand: Benzapen
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Powder for Injection (IM)1.2 Million International Units (IU)Antibiotics - PenicillinsATC: J01CE08

Generic Name

Benzathine Penicillin G 1.2 Million IU Injection

Manufacturer

Generic Pharmaceutical Company

Country

Various

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
benzapen 12 lac injection	৳ 30.00	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Benzathine Penicillin G is a long-acting penicillin antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, particularly syphilis, streptococcal pharyngitis, and for prophylaxis of rheumatic fever.

Uses & Indications

Syphilis (primary, secondary, latent)

Streptococcal pharyngitis (Group A Streptococcus)

Prophylaxis of rheumatic fever

Yaws

Pinta

Dosage

Adults

For Syphilis (primary, secondary): 2.4 Million IU as a single IM injection. For Rheumatic Fever Prophylaxis: 1.2 Million IU IM every 3-4 weeks.

Elderly

No specific dosage adjustment based solely on age, but renal function should be considered.

Renal_impairment

Dosage adjustment may be necessary in severe renal impairment, though less critical due to slow excretion.

How to Take

Administer by deep intramuscular injection into a large muscle mass (e.g., upper outer quadrant of the buttock). Do not administer intravenously, intra-arterially, or subcutaneously. Aspirate before injection to avoid inadvertent intravascular administration.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to cell lysis and bacterial death.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Within hours, but peak levels are achieved slowly, over 12-24 hours.

Excretion

Primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys.

Half life

Approximately 3-7 days for elimination from plasma after single IM dose.

Absorption

Slowly absorbed from intramuscular injection site, providing sustained blood levels for weeks.

Metabolism

Minimal hepatic metabolism.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to penicillin or any component of the formulation.
Intravenous administration (can lead to cardiac arrest and death).

Drug Interactions

Warfarin

Penicillins may alter gut flora, potentially affecting vitamin K synthesis and enhancing anticoagulant effects.

Probenecid

Decreases renal tubular secretion of penicillin, resulting in increased and prolonged blood levels.

Methotrexate

Penicillins can reduce renal clearance of methotrexate, leading to increased methotrexate toxicity.

Tetracyclines

May antagonize the bactericidal effect of penicillin.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15-30°C), protect from light and moisture. After reconstitution, use immediately or within 24 hours if refrigerated, depending on specific product guidelines.

Overdose

No specific antidote. Overdose may lead to neuromuscular excitability or convulsions, especially in patients with impaired renal function. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis may be beneficial in severe cases.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category B. Generally considered safe during pregnancy. Penicillins are excreted in breast milk in small amounts; use with caution in nursing mothers, observing for signs of diarrhea or rash in the infant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

1 vial of 1.2 Million IU Benzathine Penicillin G with 5ml sterile water for injection.

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years for unreconstituted powder, when stored as per manufacturer's instructions.

Availability

Hospitals, Clinics, Pharmacies

Approval Status

Approved worldwide

Patent Status

Off-patent

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Benzathine Penicillin G has been extensively studied and used for decades, with its efficacy well-established through numerous historical clinical trials and real-world data for its approved indications.

Lab Monitoring

For prolonged therapy, periodic assessment of renal and hematopoietic function is advisable.
Post-treatment serological tests for syphilis to confirm cure.

Doctor Notes

Always inquire about penicillin allergy history before administration.
Strictly for deep intramuscular injection; NEVER administer intravenously.
Observe patient for at least 30 minutes post-injection for signs of anaphylaxis.
In pregnancy, treatment of syphilis with penicillin is essential and proven effective.

Patient Guidelines

Inform your doctor about any history of penicillin allergy before receiving this injection.
Report any signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, difficulty breathing) immediately.
Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if you feel better, to prevent recurrence or resistance.

Missed Dose Advice

If a dose is missed, especially for ongoing prophylactic treatment, contact your doctor immediately to reschedule and maintain effective drug levels.

Driving Precautions

This medicine generally does not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or severe side effects, avoid such activities.