Potassium benzylpenicillin
[CAS# 113-98-4]

Identification

• Classification: Pharmaceutical intermediate >> OLED material intermediate
• Name: Potassium benzylpenicillin
• Synonyms: potassium [2S-(2alpha,5alpha,6beta)]-3,3-dimethyl-7-oxo-6-(phenylacetamido)-4-thia-1-azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptane-2-carboxylate
• Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₁₇KN₂O₄S
• Molecular Weight: 372.48
• CAS Registry Number: 113-98-4
• EC Number: 204-038-0
• SMILES: CC1([C@@H](N2[C@H](S1)[C@@H](C2=O)NC(=O)CC3=CC=CC=C3)C(=O)[O-])C.[K+]

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07;GHS08 Danger
• Hazard Statements: H315-H317-H319-H330-H334-H335
• Precautionary Statements: P233-P260-P261-P264-P264+P265-P271-P272-P280-P284-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P316-P319-P320-P321-P332+P317-P333+P317-P337+P317-P342+P316-P362+P364-P403-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Respiratory sensitization	Resp. Sens.	1	H334
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319

Discovory and Applicatios

Potassium benzylpenicillin, also known as penicillin G potassium or benzylpenicillin potassium salt, is a potent antibiotic belonging to the penicillin group of drugs. Its molecular formula is C16H17N2O5S·K, and it is primarily used to treat bacterial infections. The discovery of potassium benzylpenicillin dates back to the early 20th century, specifically 1928, when Alexander Fleming first identified the antibacterial properties of penicillin derived from the Penicillium notatum fungus. This groundbreaking discovery marked the beginning of the antibiotic era, revolutionizing the treatment of bacterial infections.

In the 1940s, researchers, including Howard Florey and Ernst Boris Chain, further developed penicillin for clinical use. They isolated and purified penicillin, leading to the introduction of various penicillin derivatives, including potassium benzylpenicillin. This compound is a stable, water-soluble salt form of benzylpenicillin, facilitating its administration and absorption in the body. The potassium salt was particularly useful for intravenous and intramuscular injections, allowing for rapid therapeutic effects.

Potassium benzylpenicillin is primarily utilized in treating infections caused by susceptible strains of bacteria, including streptococci, staphylococci, and pneumococci. It is effective against a wide range of infections, such as pneumonia, meningitis, and skin infections. The antibiotic works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, ultimately leading to the lysis and death of the bacteria. Its efficacy and relatively low toxicity have made it a cornerstone of antimicrobial therapy for decades.

In addition to its medical applications, potassium benzylpenicillin has also been studied for use in veterinary medicine. It is employed to treat bacterial infections in livestock and pets, contributing to animal health and productivity. However, the use of antibiotics in agriculture has raised concerns about antibiotic resistance, prompting regulatory agencies to monitor and manage their application in veterinary medicine.

The introduction of potassium benzylpenicillin marked a significant advancement in the treatment of bacterial infections. However, the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria poses a growing challenge in clinical settings. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics, including penicillin derivatives, have contributed to this issue, highlighting the need for careful stewardship in antibiotic prescribing and usage.

As research continues, efforts are being made to develop new antibiotics and alternative therapies to combat resistant bacterial strains. The ongoing exploration of the pharmacological properties of potassium benzylpenicillin and its derivatives remains vital in addressing current and future challenges in infectious disease management. Furthermore, education and awareness about responsible antibiotic use are critical to preserving the efficacy of existing treatments.

In summary, potassium benzylpenicillin is a significant antibiotic with a rich history rooted in the discovery of penicillin. Its applications in human and veterinary medicine have played a crucial role in combating bacterial infections. While the challenges of antibiotic resistance persist, ongoing research and responsible use are essential for maintaining the effectiveness of this vital therapeutic agent.

References

1979. Efficacy of antimicrobial therapy in experimental rat pneumonia: effects of impaired phagocytosis. Infection and Immunity.
DOI: 10.1128/iai.25.1.366-375.1979

1979. Parenteral prophylaxis against enterococcal endocarditis. The American Journal of the Medical Sciences.
DOI: 10.1097/00000441-197903000-00008

1979. Acute actinomycotic empyema. Thorax.
DOI: 10.1136/thx.34.3.406