Benzathine Penicillin G

Abstract

BENZATHINE penicillin (N-N′ dibenzylethylenediamine dipenicillin G), a slowly absorbed depot penicillin, has recently been recommended for the prevention of streptococcal infections in patients with active or inactive rheumatic fever1 and in military populations2 experiencing epidemics of streptococcal disease. Evidence that one injection will eradicate Group A streptococci and protect a person from acquiring new infections for several weeks has made this form of penicillin an agent of choice in streptococcal prophylaxis. On the basis of a number of studies of rheumatic patients the American Heart Association is currently recommending 1,200,000 units of benzathine penicillin per month as adequate protection against . . .