Trade names Pfizerpen, other Routes of
administration IV, IM | MedlinePlus a685013 | |
 | ||
AHFS/Drugs.com International Drug Names Pregnancy
category AU: A
US: B (No risk in non-human studies) ATC code J01CE01 (WHO) S01AA14 (WHO) QJ51CE01 (WHO) | ||
Benzylpenicillin, also known as penicillin G, is an antibiotic used to treat a number of bacterial infections. This includes pneumonia, strep throat, syphilis, necrotizing enterocolitis, diphtheria, gas gangrene, leptospirosis, cellulitis, and tetanus. It is not a first-line agent for pneumococcal meningitis. Benzylpenicillin is given by injection into a vein or muscle. Two long acting forms benzathine benzylpenicillin and procaine benzylpenicillin are available for use by injection into a muscle.
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Side effects include diarrhea, seizures, and allergic reactions including anaphylaxis. When used to treat syphilis a reaction known as Jarisch–Herxheimer may occur. It is not recommended in those with a history of penicillin allergy. Use during pregnancy is generally safe. It is in the penicillin and β-lactam class of medications.
Benzylpenicillin was discovered in 1929 and came into commercial use in 1942. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system. The wholesale cost in the developing world is about 0.24 to 2.72 USD per day. In the United States a course of treatment costs 100 to 200 USD.
Antimicrobial potency
As an antibiotic, penicillin G is noted to possess effectiveness mainly against Gram-positive organisms. Some Gram-negative organisms such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Neisseria meningitidis are also reported to be susceptible to Penicillin G.
Adverse effects
Adverse effects can include hypersensitivity reactions including urticaria, fever, joint pains, rashes, angioedema, anaphylaxis, serum sickness-like reaction. Rarely CNS toxicity including convulsions (especially with high doses or in severe renal impairment), interstitial nephritis, haemolytic anaemia, leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, and coagulation disorders. Also reported diarrhoea (including antibiotic-associated colitis).
Benzylpenicillin serum concentrations can be monitored either by traditional microbiological assay or by more modern chromatographic techniques. Such measurements can be useful to avoid central nervous system toxicity in any person receiving large doses of the drug on a chronic basis, but they are especially relevant to patients with renal failure, who may accumulate the drug due to reduced urinary excretion rates.