PENICILLINS INTRODUCTION AND CLASSIFICATION

Penicillin is a mixture of non toxic antibiotic acids especially produced by molds of the genus Penicillium and have powerful bacteriostatic effect against gram positive bacteria (staphylococci, gonococci and pneumococci). They are also bactericidal.

MOLDS OF THE GENUS PENICILLIUM

STRUCTURE OF PENICILLIN:

CLASSIFICATION:

The classification of penicillins is as follows:

(1) Amoxicillin.

(2) Ampicillin.

(3) Cloxacillin.

(4) Dicloxacillin.

(5) Carbenicillin.

(6) Methicillin.

(7) Nafcillin.

(8) Oxacillin.

(9) Penicillin G.

(10) Penicillin V.

(11) Piperacillin.

(12) Ticarcillin.

PENICILLIN G:

It is also known as benzyl penicillin. It is more active against gram negative organisms and some anaerobes. It is given parenterally. Penicillin G is indicated for treatment of infections due to susceptible organisms. Penicillin G is acid labile and should be taken on an empty stomach.

PENICILLIN V:

It is also known as Phenoxy methyl penicillin. It is less active against gram negative organisms and some anaerobes. It is given orally as it is more resistant to hydrolysis by acid gastric secretions. Penicillin V is indicated for treatment of mild to moderately severe infections. It is more stable in the presence of gastric acid so it can also be taken with meals.