benzylpenicillin
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun A specific, naturally occurring form of penicillin, which is an antibiotic used to treat infections caused by certain bacteria. It is the fundamental penicillin compound from which many other penicillin antibiotics are derived.
Usage
- Benzylpenicillin is administered by injection, typically into a muscle or vein.
- The doctor prescribed benzylpenicillin for the severe bacterial infection.
- Benzylpenicillin is often the first-choice treatment for infections like pneumonia and meningitis caused by susceptible organisms.
Advanced Usage
- Chemical Context: In pharmacology and chemistry, benzylpenicillin refers specifically to the penicillin G molecule, distinguishing it from semi-synthetic penicillins like ampicillin or amoxicillin.
- Historical Context: Benzylpenicillin was one of the first widely used antibiotics, revolutionizing medicine in the mid-20th century.
Variants and Related Words
- Penicillin G: This is the most common synonym for benzylpenicillin.
- Benzylpenicillin sodium: The sodium salt form of the drug, commonly used in injections.
- Benzylpenicillin potassium: The potassium salt form of the drug.
Synonyms
- Penicillin G
- Crystalline penicillin
Notes on Meaning
This word has a single, specific technical meaning in medicine and pharmacology. It does not have idiomatic or phrasal verb uses.
Noun
- the penicillin that constitutes the principal component of many commercial antibiotics