Penicillin G
Brand and Other Names:
Penicillin G
Mechanism of Action:
Bactericidal; inhibits cell wall mucopeptide biosynthesis.
Indications:
Used in conditions including:
- Septicemia, meningitis, endocarditis
- Anthrax, diphtheria (adjunctive)
- Listeria and Actinomyces infections
- Syphilis (including neurosyphilis)
- Rat-bite fever, fusospirochetosis, and more
Route:
intramuscular or intravenous
Dose:
Adult - 5 to 24 million units/day in divided doses every 4–6 hours.
Adverse Reactions:
Common: Diarrhea, nausea, rash.
Serious: Anaphylaxis, serum sickness, neurotoxicity (at high doses), nephritis, electrolyte imbalance (especially hyperkalemia).
Contraindication:
Contraindicated in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to penicillins.
Warnings and Precautions:
Warnings:
- Serious anaphylactic reactions may occur.
- May cause Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD).
- Use cautiously in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, allergies, or asthma.
See package insert for full prescribing information.