Penicillin G (penicillin G potassium), is an antibiotic prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections. It's used for treating pneumonia, strep throat, staph infection, diphtheria, meningitis, gonorrhea, and syphilis. It may be administered to prevent heart valve infection before dental procedures for people with certain cardiac conditions. Show
Part of a class of antibiotics called “natural penicillins,” Penicillin G acts directly on bacteria in the body and kills these pathogens by weakening their cell walls. Taken intravenously (IV) or as an injection, it’s also marketed under the name Pfizerpen. microgen / iStock / Getty Images UsesAn antibiotic that works against a wide range of bacteria, Penicillin G is effective against infections caused by some forms of Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylcoccus, Clostridium bacteria, and many others. It is used for treating:
Before TakingAmong the important considerations are the severity of the case as well as the specific type of bacteria involved. Following assessment of symptoms and medical history, healthcare providers may conduct several different tests to identify the nature and scope of the issue: Stains and MicroscopyA specimen is taken from saliva, blood, or tissue for microscopic examination. This approach doesn’t provide definitive identification of the specific bacterial strain, but it can be used to quickly categorize the broader class of the pathogen at play. CultureSamples are taken from saliva, blood, or bodily tissue and placed in specialized broth or agar plates that allow them to survive and multiply. Further biochemical tests can lead to definitive identification. After initial identification, antibiotics may be applied to the sample to see if they are effective against the strain. Dark Field and Fluorescent MicroscopyDark field identification employs ultraviolet (UV) light to assess specimens through a microscope. A dark background is used, and the bacteria is viewed from the side rather than the back of the slide, allowing healthcare providers to examine the structure of the pathogen cells. This may be combined with fluorescent microscopy, which is effective in identifying syphilis strains as well as tuberculosis strains. Antigen DetectionComing in the form of commercial kits, antigen tests are employed on bodily fluids to provide rapid results. Depending on the specific disease suspected, urine, throat swab, or cerebrospinal fluid, among others, may be used. Nucleic Acid Probes and Polymerase Chain ReactionNucleic acid probes are specialized molecules used to detect bacteria in bodily fluids or other samples. Polymerase chain reactions (PCR) aid in identification by generating copies of existing bacterial genetic material in a sample. SerologyThis approach involves assessing certain chemical interactions within the blood serum. The healthcare providers look for signs of a body’s immune response to bacteria, which can help pin down the specific infection at play. Precautions and ContraindicationsOnce the strain of bacteria has been properly identified, the practitioner will need to weigh some other factors before prescribing therapy with penicillin G. As with any medication, some people may not be the best candidates for this approach, due to health status or other medications that they’re taking. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the factors that are considered:
As a patient, it’s absolutely critical that you give your healthcare provider a full accounting of your medical history as well as a list of every prescription or over the counter medication, vitamin, or supplement that you’re taking. This way they’ll be better able to come up with a treatment that’s safe and effective. Other Natural PenicillinsPenicillin G is part of a class of drugs called natural penicillins. These were the first antibiotic drugs developed and are derivations of naturally occurring compounds. Others of the class include:
DosageYour dose of penicillin G administered will depend on the specific disease you are being treated for, your health status, as well as a number of other factors. Typically, this drug is administered in divided doses, that are scheduled every four to six hours, though some conditions may require a different course. Some of the infections that are treated with penicillin G are fairly common, while some are quite rare. Here’s a quick breakdown of recommended doses for adults based on condition:
Remember that the specific dosages that you would be administered are based on these guidelines, but are ultimately up to your healthcare provider; what works for you might not for someone else. ModificationsDosage of penicillin G will need to be adjusted for pediatric cases and those with severe kidney problems. For children, the necessary amount of medication is calculated based on the child's weight, and if the recommended dose is less than 1 million units/day, your child's healthcare providers may consider alternatives. ChildrenPrescribing guidelines for children are as follows: Serious infection with streptococcus/meningococcus: Pneumonia, endocarditis, and other severe infections by strains of streptococcal and meningococcal bacteria are treated with 150,000 to 300,000 units per kilogram (kg) body weight per day in equal doses every four to six hours (one kg is approximately 2.2 pounds). Duration will vary based on condition. Meningitis due to pneumococcus/meningococcus: When these bacteria spread to the meninges, 250,000 units/kg/day is indicated in divided, equal doses every four hours for seven to 14 days, depending on condition. No more than 12 to 20 million units/day should be administered. Spreading gonococcal infections: In children weighing less than 45 kg, the dosage will depend on what bodily system is infected.
Congenital syphilis: In children after the newborn period with syphilis (acquired from the parent during pregnancy), 200,000 to 300,000 units/kg/day in divided doses every four hours is indicated. Typically, this therapy lasts 10 to 14 days. Diphtheria: As an adjunct therapy to antitoxins used to combat this infection and/or to prevent becoming a carrier, 150,000 to 250,000 units/kg/day in equal doses every six hours for seven to 10 days is recommended. Haverhill/rate-bite fever: In these cases, the indicated dose is 150,000 to 250,000 units/kg/day in equal doses every four hours for four weeks. Pre-Existing Kidney DiseaseAnother adjustment that needs to be made is in cases of severe kidney problems. Creatinine clearance is a measure of renal function. In uremic patients with a creatinine clearance above 10 ml/min, give a full loading dose, followed by an additional one-half of the loading dose every four to five hours. How to Take and StorePenicillin G comes in a liquid form and is most often given either via IV or as a shot. This is often administered in the hospital, though, in some cases, you may be able to take it at home. In both cases, your healthcare provider will have already determined the necessary dosage, so you’ll just need to follow any given schedule and procedures. Especially if you’re using this antibiotic at home, pay careful attention to your practitioner’s instructions about care and administration, and don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have. If you’ve been given this drug to take at home, you’ll likely receive it in one of two forms—as a powder that needs to be mixed or as a premixed solution. What should you keep in mind? Here’s a quick breakdown:
OverdoseWhat if you accidentally take too much? If you overdose with penicillin G, you may experience a range of symptoms, including agitation, confusion, hallucination, and seizures, among others. This is a medical emergency, so seek out prompt medical attention. Finally, if you discover you’ve missed a dose, take a normal one as soon as you can. That said, if it’s almost time for your next dose, you can skip it and return to your schedule. Never try to double-up on these. Side EffectsAs with all medications, people taking penicillin G may be subject to a range of side effects, both common and more severe. Let your healthcare provider know about your side effects and get prompt medical attention if you experience severe symptoms. Some adverse reactions are medical emergencies. CommonIf you’ve been prescribed penicillin G, there’s a chance that you may experience any of the following side effects:
SevereBy far the most severe adverse reaction to Penicillin G is severe allergic shock, which can be deadly. Additionally, if you experience any of the below symptoms, get medical attention immediately:
In addition, seek immediate attention if you have any of the following:
Warnings and InteractionsAs mentioned, the most severe adverse reaction to Penicillin G is allergic shock, which can be deadly. These reactions can be immediate, with symptoms arising within 20 minutes of administration, or you can have a delayed reaction within one to two weeks. The efficacy of this drug can also be affected by the presence of other drugs or chemicals in your system. In fact, many medications and substances are known to interact with this drug in some way. The most common of these are:
The good news is that there are no dietary restrictions while taking this drug, and adults can responsibly enjoy alcohol. To ensure full efficacy of this treatment, make sure to stick to your prescription as best you can; don’t stop taking penicillin G without your healthcare provider’s approval, and keep them informed on your progress. |