Benzathne Penicillin Injection 2.4miu

Generic Name: Benzathine Benzylpenicillin
Strength: 2.4 million international units (MIU)
Form: Intramuscular injection
Drug Class: Long-acting beta-lactam antibiotic (penicillin group)

Description:

Benzathine Penicillin 2.4 MIU is a long-acting antibiotic used primarily to treat and prevent bacterial infections caused by penicillin-sensitive organisms. It is formulated as a depot injection, which releases the drug slowly into the bloodstream over time, allowing for prolonged antibacterial activity.

Indications (Uses):

• Treatment of syphilis (primary, secondary, and latent stages)

• Prophylaxis and treatment of rheumatic fever

• Treatment of streptococcal pharyngitis or tonsillitis (especially in patients with poor compliance)

• Yaws, bejel, and pinta (tropical infections)

• Skin and soft tissue infections due to Streptococcus pyogenes

Dosage and Administration:

• Usual adult dose: 2.4 MIU given intramuscularly in the upper outer quadrant of the buttock

• In syphilis treatment, the dose and duration depend on the stage (e.g., early syphilis: single dose; late latent syphilis: weekly doses for 3 weeks)

• For prophylaxis (e.g., rheumatic fever): given every 3–4 weeks

• Do not administer intravenously.

Mechanism of Action:

Benzathine Penicillin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to cell lysis and death. Its benzathine salt form provides slow absorption and extended therapeutic levels, making it ideal for long-term treatment or prophylaxis.

Side Effects:

Common:

• Pain or swelling at the injection site

• Mild fever or chills

• Nausea

Serious (rare but urgent):

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, anaphylaxis)

• Serum sickness

• Neurotoxicity (if inadvertently given intravenously)

Contraindications:

• Known allergy to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics

• History of severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any penicillin preparation

Precautions:

• Perform an allergy test in patients with uncertain history

• Use with caution in patients with asthma or allergies

• Avoid IV administration — it is strictly for deep IM use only

• Monitor for signs of Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction in syphilis treatment (temporary worsening of symptoms due to rapid bacterial death)

Storage:

• Store below 25°C

• Protect from light

• Reconstituted solution should be used immediately or as per manufacturer’s guidelines