Penicillin G
Penicillin G (benzylpenicillin) is a narrow-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections caused by susceptible pathogens. Because it is unstable in gastric acid, it must be administered parenterally via intravenous infusion or intramuscular injection.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage must be individualized based on the severity of infection, renal function, and patient body weight. Typically dosed in USP Units. Pediatric dosing is highly calculated based on Units/kg/day.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- 50,000 to 100,000 Units/kg/day
- Frequency
- Divided every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Commonly adjusted for neonates based on chronological and gestational age.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 500,000 to 1,750,000 Units/day total
- Frequency
- Divided every 4 to 6 hours IV
- Tracking Notes
- Calculated at 100,000 to 250,000 Units/kg/day for susceptible systemic infections.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 800,000 to 2,500,000 Units/day total
- Frequency
- Divided every 4 to 6 hours IV
- Tracking Notes
- Higher end of dosing range is reserved for severe infections like meningitis.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 1,100,000 to 3,750,000 Units/day total
- Frequency
- Divided every 4 to 6 hours IV
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure adequate hydration and monitor renal function during high-dose therapy.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 1,600,000 to 5,000,000 Units/day total
- Frequency
- Divided every 4 to 6 hours IV
- Tracking Notes
- For intramuscular formulations (e.g., Benzathine Penicillin G), consult specific single-dose guidelines.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | 50,000 to 100,000 Units/kg/day | Divided every 8 to 12 hours | Commonly adjusted for neonates based on chronological and gestational age. |
| 5-7 kg | 500,000 to 1,750,000 Units/day total | Divided every 4 to 6 hours IV | Calculated at 100,000 to 250,000 Units/kg/day for susceptible systemic infections. |
| 8-10 kg | 800,000 to 2,500,000 Units/day total | Divided every 4 to 6 hours IV | Higher end of dosing range is reserved for severe infections like meningitis. |
| 11-15 kg | 1,100,000 to 3,750,000 Units/day total | Divided every 4 to 6 hours IV | Ensure adequate hydration and monitor renal function during high-dose therapy. |
| 16-20 kg | 1,600,000 to 5,000,000 Units/day total | Divided every 4 to 6 hours IV | For intramuscular formulations (e.g., Benzathine Penicillin G), consult specific single-dose guidelines. |
Formulation
Purpose
Treatment of severe bacterial infections including streptococcal infections, meningitis, neurosyphilis, endocarditis, and syphilis.
Generic Name
BenzylpenicillinBranded Drug Names
Penicillin G is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.