Penicillin g potassium

Penicillin G potassium is a type of antibiotic that is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is a member of the penicillin family of antibiotics, which are derived from the fungus Penicillium. Penicillin G potassium works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, leading to the death of the bacteria.

History

Penicillin G potassium was first discovered in 1928 by Alexander Fleming. He noticed that a culture of Staphylococcus bacteria had been contaminated by a Penicillium fungus, and that the bacteria around the fungus had died. This led to the discovery of penicillin, the first antibiotic.

Medical uses

Penicillin G potassium is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including pneumonia, meningitis, endocarditis, and syphilis. It is also used to prevent bacterial endocarditis in people who are undergoing dental or surgical procedures.

Side effects

Like all antibiotics, penicillin G potassium can cause side effects. These can include allergic reactions, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction.

Resistance

Over time, some bacteria have developed antibiotic resistance to penicillin G potassium. This means that the antibiotic is no longer effective against these bacteria. Resistance can occur when bacteria mutate, or when they acquire resistance genes from other bacteria.

See also

• Penicillin G benzathine
• Penicillin G procaine
• Penicillin V