BENZATHINE,PENICILLIN

Benzathine penicillin received approval for medical use in 1950 and was subsequently included in the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines for the treatment of specific bacterial infections.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

When benzathine penicillin is prescribed for a bacterial infection, take it exactly as directed to help prevent the development of drug resistance. Missed doses may reduce treatment effectiveness. Complete the entire course of treatment even if symptoms improve.

During treatment, include probiotic-rich foods and high-fibre foods to maintain stomach bacteria balance. Avoid calcium-rich foods, grapefruit, and alcohol while taking this medicine.

Before any diagnostic tests, inform your healthcare provider that you are being treated with benzathine penicillin, as it may affect liver function tests and prothrombin time results.

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.