Benzathine Penicillin_ Dosage and Administration Guidelines

Benzathine Penicillin: Dosage and Administration Guidelines

Benzathine penicillin, also known as benzathine benzylpenicillin, is a long-acting form of penicillin used to treat various bacterial infections. Its extended-release formulation allows for prolonged therapeutic levels in the body, making it particularly useful for conditions requiring sustained antibiotic presence. Here's an overview of the typical dosage recommendations for benzathine penicillin:

Streptococcal Infections (including Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal pharyngitis):

Adults and children >27 kg: 1.2 million units as a single intramuscular injection

Children 鈮?7 kg: 600,000 units as a single intramuscular injection

Syphilis:

Primary, secondary, and early latent: 2.4 million units as a single intramuscular injection

Late latent: 2.4 million units intramuscularly once weekly for three consecutive weeks

Rheumatic Fever Prophylaxis:

Adults and children >27 kg: 1.2 million units every 4 weeks

Children 鈮?7 kg: 600,000 units every 4 weeks

Prophylaxis of Recurrent Cellulitis:

Adults: 1.2 million units every 2-4 weeks

Congenital Syphilis:

Infants: 50,000 units/kg as a single intramuscular injection

Administration:

Benzathine penicillin is administered via deep intramuscular injection only.

For adults, the preferred injection site is the upper outer quadrant of the buttock or the lateral thigh.

For infants and small children, the lateral thigh is the preferred site.

Due to the volume, doses may need to be divided and injected into separate sites.

Important Considerations:

Pain at the injection site is common due to the volume and viscosity of the solution.

The medication should be brought to room temperature before injection to reduce discomfort.

Patients should be monitored for at least 30 minutes after administration due to the risk of anaphylaxis.

Benzathine penicillin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to penicillin.

In patients with renal impairment, dose adjustments are generally not required due to the drug's primary excretion through non-renal pathways.

Precautions:

Allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, can occur. Emergency equipment should be readily available.

The Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction may occur in patients treated for syphilis, typically within 24 hours of treatment.

Benzathine penicillin should be used with caution in patients with a history of asthma or allergies.

It's crucial to note that these dosages are general guidelines. The exact dosage should be determined by a healthcare professional based on the specific condition being treated, the patient's age, weight, and overall health status. Always consult current clinical guidelines and product information for the most up-to-date and detailed dosing recommendations.