This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.
Background and Date of Approval
Benzathine penicillin was approved for medical use in 1950 and was added to the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines to treat specific bacterial infections.
Mechanism of Action of undefined
Benzathine penicillin stops the bacteria from building their cell walls while multiplying. It's like preventing them from constructing a protective barrier by inhibiting the activity of enzyme transpeptidase. Without this barrier, the bacteria become weak, and their cell walls break, causing them to die (bactericidal effect). This helps you get rid of infection.
Uses of undefined
Benzylpenicillin is a narrow-spectrum antibiotic used to treat erysipelas (skin infection), syphilis, and tropical infectious skin diseases caused by bacteria. It is also used to prevent rheumatic fever and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (a specific form of kidney inflammation).
undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available
Benzathine penicillin is available as an injection with the strength of 2.4MIU for intramuscular use only (injected directly into your muscle). Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition.
Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined
Warnings
It is not recommended to take benzathine penicillin if you are allergic to penicillin or other antibiotics. You need to inform your physician if you have liver disorders, kidney disorders, asthma, or if you are allergic to peanuts or soya before taking a benzathine penicillin injection. Before starting this treatment, give a detailed overview of your medical history and current medications.
Precautions
When using benzathine penicillin, exercise caution and inform your doctor if you are pregnant, as its safety is determined after weighing the benefits and risks. Avoid breastfeeding during treatment, and inform your doctor about any lung diseases or severe liver disorders. Alcohol interaction may alter its therapeutic effect, and it is advised to avoid driving due to the potential serious side effects. Consult your doctor for personalized guidance on these precautions.
Side Effects
Serious side effects of benzathine penicillin may include anaphylactic shock, characterized by severe allergic reactions such as itching, flushed or pale skin, a rapid pulse, stomach upset, and fainting. On a more common note, individuals taking benzathine penicillin may experience fungal infections, diarrhea, nausea, and changes in certain medical test results. It's important to be vigilant for signs of anaphylactic shock and promptly seek medical attention if observed.
Word Of Advice
If prescribed benzathine penicillin for a bacterial infection, take it as directed to prevent drug resistance. Missing doses may compromise the effectiveness of the treatment. Complete the full course even if you start feeling better and maintaining a balance in stomach bacteria by including probiotic-rich foods and high-fiber foods. Avoid calcium-rich foods, grapefruit, and alcohol during the course. Before undergoing any diagnostic tests, inform your healthcare provider about your treatment with this medicine, as benzathine penicillin may impact liver function tests and prothrombin time.
Frequently Asked Question
References
- Brancaster Pharma Limited, Electronic medicines compendium, [Revised on July 2019] [Accessed on Nov 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/11043/pil
- King Pharmaceuticals, Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on August 2012] [Accessed on Nov 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/050141s237lbl.pdf
- Gartlan WA, et al., Benzathine Penicillin, StatPearls Publishing; Published on 14/05/2023; Accessed on 29/11/2023; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507723/
- Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Penicillins, cephalosporins, and other beta-lactam antibiotics, 12th edition, 2011, 1485.
- KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Beta-lactam antibiotics, 7th edition, 2013, 720.
Disclaimer
The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.
