No specific brand (Generic)
Generic Name
Benzathine Penicillin G
Manufacturer
Generic manufacturers worldwide
Country
Multiple countries
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Benzathine Penicillin G is a long-acting penicillin antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, primarily syphilis, streptococcal pharyngitis, and for the prevention of rheumatic fever. It is administered via deep intramuscular injection.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Syphilis: 2.4 million units IM single dose. Streptococcal Pharyngitis: 1.2 million units IM single dose. Rheumatic Fever Prophylaxis: 1.2 million units IM every 3-4 weeks.
Elderly
Similar to adults, but adjust for renal function if impaired.
Renal_impairment
Caution, dosage reduction may be necessary in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Deep intramuscular injection only. Not for intravenous, subcutaneous, or intra-arterial administration.
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to cell lysis and death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Hours to reach peak plasma concentration, but sustained action for weeks due to slow release.
Excretion
Primarily renal excretion as unchanged drug.
Half life
Variable, typically 3-4 days in initial phase, longer in elimination phase due to slow release from injection site.
Absorption
Slowly absorbed from intramuscular injection site, providing sustained low concentrations over an extended period.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized; primarily excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- History of hypersensitivity to penicillin or cephalosporins
- Intravenous administration
- Asthma or severe allergies
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Decreases renal tubular secretion of penicillin, resulting in increased and prolonged blood levels.
Methotrexate
Reduced excretion of methotrexate, increasing toxicity.
Tetracyclines
May antagonize the bactericidal effect of penicillin.
Storage
Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Overdose
No specific antidote. Management involves supportive care and discontinuation of the drug. Hemodialysis may be beneficial in severe cases as penicillin is dialyzable.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Generally considered safe during pregnancy. Excreted in breast milk in small amounts, generally considered compatible with breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- History of hypersensitivity to penicillin or cephalosporins
- Intravenous administration
- Asthma or severe allergies
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Decreases renal tubular secretion of penicillin, resulting in increased and prolonged blood levels.
Methotrexate
Reduced excretion of methotrexate, increasing toxicity.
Tetracyclines
May antagonize the bactericidal effect of penicillin.
Storage
Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Overdose
No specific antidote. Management involves supportive care and discontinuation of the drug. Hemodialysis may be beneficial in severe cases as penicillin is dialyzable.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Generally considered safe during pregnancy. Excreted in breast milk in small amounts, generally considered compatible with breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years when stored correctly, refer to product label for specific details.
Availability
Worldwide, hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved by FDA/DGDA
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Benzathine Penicillin G is a well-established drug with extensive clinical use over decades. Newer trials primarily focus on optimizing dosing for specific indications or evaluating its role in emerging resistance patterns.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function (in prolonged therapy or impaired renal function)
- Complete blood count (rarely, in prolonged use)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize that Benzathine Penicillin G is for deep intramuscular injection ONLY; never administer intravenously due to severe adverse events.
- Educate patients on potential allergic reactions, which can occur even after previous uneventful doses.
- Ensure proper needle length and technique for IM injection to avoid nerve or vessel damage.
Patient Guidelines
- Report any signs of allergic reaction immediately
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking
Missed Dose Advice
As this is typically a single or infrequent dose administered by a healthcare professional, a missed dose should be administered as soon as remembered or rescheduled by the professional.
Driving Precautions
Generally no effect on ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if experiencing dizziness, severe allergic reactions, or other neurological side effects, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection (e.g., in syphilis)
- Stay hydrated and get adequate rest
- Avoid alcohol if experiencing GI side effects
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.