Penicillin G Overview and Uses

Study Notes

Penicillin G Overview

No generic name associated with Penicillin G.
Classified as an antibacterial in therapeutic use.

Pharmacological Classification

Functions as a cell wall inhibitor and falls under natural penicillin.

Actions and Uses

Effective against streptococci, pneumococci, and staphylococci that do not produce beta-lactamase.
Preferred treatment for gonorrhea and syphilis caused by susceptible strains.
Available as potassium or sodium salt with no therapeutic difference between the two.
Long-acting forms include penicillin G benzathine (Bicillin) and penicillin G procaine.
Oral absorption is low (15-30%); primarily administered via IV or IM routes for effectiveness.
More stable options like penicillin V and amoxicillin are used when oral therapy is preferable.
Both penicillin G and V inactivated by penicillinase-producing organisms.

Administration Alerts

Monitor for allergic reactions for 30 minutes post-parenteral administration, particularly after the first dose.
Avoid mixing penicillin with aminoglycosides in IV solutions; administer these medications 1 hour apart.
Classified as pregnancy category B, indicating no proven risk in human studies.

Adverse Effects

Common adverse reactions include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, especially risky for children and older adults.
Injection site pain may occur; risk of superinfections present.
Serious reaction includes anaphylaxis, with potential late hypersensitivity reactions appearing weeks later.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to penicillin class drugs is the sole contraindication.
Caution advised in patients with severe renal disease due to extensive renal excretion.

Drug Interactions

Oral contraceptive effectiveness may be reduced when taken with penicillin G.
Colestipol can decrease penicillin absorption.
Co-administration with potassium-sparing diuretics risks hyperkalemia.
Avoid concurrent use with aminoglycoside antibiotics due to antagonistic effects.
Penicillin G may yield false results in lab tests, including positive Coombs' test and incorrect urinary or serum protein levels.

Description

This quiz covers the essential aspects of Penicillin G, including its pharmacological classification, actions, and uses. Learn about its effectiveness against various bacterial infections and important administration alerts. Test your knowledge on the details of this potent antibacterial agent.