Benzathine
Benzathine benzylpenicillin, also known as benzathine penicillin G, is an antibiotic medication useful for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections.[3] Specifically it is used to treat strep throat, diphtheria, syphilis, and yaws.[4][3] It is also used to prevent rheumatic fever.[4] It is given by injection into a muscle.[4]
Side effects include allergic reactions including anaphylaxis, and pain at the site of injection.[4] When used to treat syphilis a reaction known as Jarisch-Herxheimer may occur.[4] It is not recommended in those with a history of penicillin allergy or those with syphilis involving the nervous system.[4][3] Use during pregnancy is generally safe.[3] It is in the penicillin and beta lactam class of medications and works via benzylpenicillin.[3][4] The benzathine component slowly releases the penicillin making the combination long acting.[5]
Benzathine benzylpenicillin was patented in 1950.[2][6] It is on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines.[7]