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🦠microbiology review

Penicillin G Benzathine

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Penicillin G benzathine is a long-acting form of the antibiotic penicillin G. It is commonly used to treat certain bacterial infections, particularly those affecting the reproductive system, due to its ability to remain active in the body for an extended period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Penicillin G benzathine is administered as an intramuscular injection, allowing for a slow and gradual release of the antibiotic into the bloodstream.
  2. The long-acting nature of penicillin G benzathine makes it particularly useful for the treatment of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection that can affect the reproductive system.
  3. Penicillin G benzathine is also used to treat other bacterial infections of the reproductive system, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia.
  4. The prolonged activity of penicillin G benzathine in the body helps to ensure that the infection is fully eradicated, reducing the risk of relapse or reinfection.
  5. Proper dosing and administration of penicillin G benzathine are crucial to maintain effective antibiotic levels and prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.

Review Questions

  • Explain how the long-acting nature of penicillin G benzathine makes it suitable for the treatment of bacterial infections of the reproductive system.
    • The long-acting nature of penicillin G benzathine allows for a slow and gradual release of the antibiotic into the bloodstream, maintaining therapeutic levels for an extended period. This is particularly beneficial for the treatment of bacterial infections of the reproductive system, such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia, as it helps to ensure that the infection is fully eradicated and reduces the risk of relapse or reinfection. The prolonged activity of penicillin G benzathine also allows for less frequent dosing, which can improve patient compliance and convenience.
  • Describe the mechanism of action of penicillin G benzathine and its effectiveness against different types of bacteria.
    • Penicillin G benzathine, like other penicillin antibiotics, works by interfering with the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. It binds to specific enzymes involved in the formation of the peptidoglycan layer, which is essential for the structural integrity of the bacterial cell. This disruption of the cell wall ultimately leads to the lysis and death of the bacteria. Penicillin G benzathine is effective against a variety of Gram-positive bacteria, including Streptococcus and Staphylococcus species, as well as some Gram-negative bacteria, such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which can cause gonorrhea.
  • Analyze the importance of proper dosing and administration of penicillin G benzathine in the context of preventing antibiotic resistance.
    • Proper dosing and administration of penicillin G benzathine are crucial in the treatment of bacterial infections to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance. Maintaining effective antibiotic levels in the body is essential to ensure the complete eradication of the infection. If the antibiotic concentration falls below the minimum inhibitory concentration for the target bacteria, it can allow for the survival and proliferation of resistant strains. Improper use of penicillin G benzathine, such as underdosing or irregular administration, can contribute to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can then spread and become a significant public health concern. Therefore, healthcare providers must carefully monitor the dosage and administration of penicillin G benzathine to optimize treatment outcomes and minimize the risk of resistance development.