Benzathine Penicillin 1200000 IU Injection: Complete Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Severe pain, numbness, or weakness in the leg after injection
- High fever with chills and muscle aches (Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction)
- Decreased urine output or swelling in the legs
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is benzathine 1200000iu injection used for?
Benzathine penicillin G 1200000 IU injection is a long-acting antibiotic used to treat syphilis and prevent rheumatic fever. It is given as a deep intramuscular injection by a healthcare professional.
- Generic Name: Benzathine penicillin G
- Manufacturer: Karnataka Antibiotics & Pharmaceuticals Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 benzathine 1200000iu injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा एक लंबे समय तक काम करने वाला एंटीबायोटिक है जिसका उपयोग सिफलिस (उपदंश) के इलाज और रूमेटिक बुखार को रोकने के लिए किया जाता है। यह इंजेक्शन के रूप में नितंब की मांसपेशी में गहराई से लगाई जाती है। यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर की देखरेख में ही लगवानी चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में इंजेक्शन वाली जगह पर दर्द, सूजन और हल्का बुखार शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, चेहरे या गले में सूजन हो सकती है। अगर ऐसा हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल योग्य स्वास्थ्यकर्मी द्वारा ही लगाई जानी चाहिए। खुद से इंजेक्शन न लगाएं। अगर आपको पेनिसिलिन से एलर्जी है तो डॉक्टर को पहले बताएं। इंजेक्शन के बाद 30 मिनट तक डॉक्टर की निगरानी में रहें। इंजेक्शन वाली जगह को मलें नहीं।
💊 benzathine 1200000iu injection Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Syphilis (primary, secondary, and early latent)","description":"This medicine is the treatment of choice for early syphilis, providing sustained penicillin levels to eradicate Treponema pallidum.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Rheumatic fever prophylaxis","description":"Used to prevent recurrent rheumatic fever in patients with a history of rheumatic heart disease.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Streptococcal pharyngitis (when oral therapy is not feasible)","description":"Alternative for treating group A streptococcal pharyngitis in patients who cannot take oral penicillin.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Yaws and endemic treponematoses","description":"Effective in treating yaws and other endemic treponemal infections.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Neurosyphilis (alternative regimen)","description":"May be used as an alternative in some neurosyphilis cases, but aqueous penicillin G is preferred.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Lyme disease (early disseminated)","description":"Sometimes used off-label for early Lyme disease, but oral antibiotics are preferred.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Prophylaxis after rheumatic fever exposure","description":"Occasionally used in outbreak settings to prevent streptococcal infections.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Syphilis
Also treats: Rheumatic fever prophylaxis, Streptococcal pharyngitis, Yaws
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Benzathine penicillin G |
| Brand Name | Benzathine 1200000IU Injection |
| Manufacturer | Karnataka Antibiotics & Pharmaceuticals Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI INFECTIVES |
| Action Class | Cell wall active agent - Narrow spectrum Penicillin |
| Route of Administration | Intramuscular (deep IM injection into the buttock) |
| Storage | Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Bring to room temperature before administration. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | WHO recommends benzathine penicillin G for the treatment of early syphilis and for rheumatic fever prophylaxis. |
| ICMR Guideline | ICMR guidelines also recommend benzathine penicillin G for syphilis and rheumatic fever prophylaxis, in line with WHO recommendations. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall. This binding inhibits the transpeptidase enzyme responsible for cross-linking peptidoglycan chains, which are essential for cell wall strength. As a result, the bacterial cell wall becomes weak and the bacterium undergoes lysis and death. Because benzathine penicillin G is a depot formulation, it slowly releases penicillin G into the bloodstream, providing prolonged antibacterial activity.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take benzathine 1200000iu injection
Strength: Benzathine penicillin G 1200000 IU per vial for injection.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dosage of this medicine depends on the condition being treated. For early syphilis, the recommended dose is 2.4 million units (which is two 1.2 million unit injections) given as a single intramuscular dose. For rheumatic fever prophylaxis, 1.2 million units is given every 3 to 4 weeks. For streptococcal pharyngitis, a single dose of 1.2 million units may be used. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may have reduced renal function, which can affect drug clearance. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal function. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with renal impairment, the elimination half-life of penicillin G is prolonged. Dose reduction or increased dosing interval may be required. Consult a doctor for specific recommendations based on creatinine clearance. |
| Hepatic Impairment | No specific dosage adjustment is established for hepatic impairment. Use with caution and monitor liver function. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended dose is 2.4 million units per day for adults, but this may vary by indication. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. |
Dosage Timeline
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of benzathine 1200000iu injection
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Methotrexate | Major | |
| Warfarin | Major | |
| Tetracyclines | Moderate | |
| Oral contraceptives | Moderate | |
| Probenecid | Moderate | |
| Aminoglycosides | Moderate |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Methotrexate
- Warfarin
- Tetracyclines
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Oral contraceptives
- Probenecid
- Aminoglycosides
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol does not directly interact with this medicine, but it may worsen certain infections or reduce your ability to fight them. It is advisable to avoid excessive alcohol consumption while being treated for an infection.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity to penicillin or any beta-lactam antibiotic","Previous severe allergic reaction to penicillin","Not for intravenous administration"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Administer only by deep intramuscular injection into the upper outer quadrant of the buttock.","Avoid injection into or near major nerves or blood vessels.","Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustment may be needed.","Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures.","Monitor for allergic reactions for at least 30 minutes after injection.","Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction may occur in syphilis patients; manage symptomatically.","Do not use for viral infections.","Prolonged use may lead to superinfection with resistant organisms."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Penicillin G is excreted in breast milk in low concentrations. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but monitor the infant for diarrhea or thrush. Consult your doctor.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose with this medicine is unlikely due to its intramuscular route and depot formulation. In case of accidental overdose, monitor for signs of neurotoxicity (e.g., seizures) and provide supportive care. There is no specific antidote. Hemodialysis may be considered in severe cases.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a scheduled dose, contact your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not attempt to self-administer an extra dose. The dosing schedule is critical for effective treatment, especially for syphilis and rheumatic fever prophylaxis.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must be administered only by a qualified healthcare professional. Do not attempt to self-inject. Before receiving this injection, inform your doctor if you are allergic to penicillin or any other antibiotics, have kidney disease, or have a history of seizures. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, tell your doctor, as this medicine is generally considered safe but requires medical supervision. After the injection, remain under observation for at least 30 minutes to monitor for allergic reactions. Do not massage the injection site. If you miss a scheduled dose, contact your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not take any other medications without consulting your doctor, especially blood thinners, methotrexate, or oral contraceptives, as interactions may occur. Store this medicine in a refrigerator at 2-8°C and do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may have reduced renal function, which can prolong the elimination of penicillin. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Monitor for signs of toxicity.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy and have a history of syphilis or rheumatic fever, consult your doctor. Benzathine penicillin is safe during pregnancy and is essential to prevent congenital syphilis.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Inform your surgeon if you are on benzathine penicillin, especially if you are scheduled for surgery. It may interact with other medications used during surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
No specific precautions for dental procedures. However, inform your dentist about your medication and any allergies.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
After the injection, you may experience soreness in the buttock. Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for a day or two. If you experience numbness or weakness in the leg, seek medical attention.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
Most people can resume normal activities immediately after the injection. However, if you experience dizziness or pain, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you feel better.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop the treatment regimen without consulting your doctor. For syphilis, a single dose is usually curative, but follow-up is essential. For rheumatic fever prophylaxis, the duration is determined by your doctor based on your condition.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of benzathine penicillin is generally safe when used as prescribed for prophylaxis. Regular monitoring for allergic reactions and renal function is advised. Prolonged use may lead to superinfection with resistant organisms. For rheumatic fever prophylaxis, it may be needed for many years, and the benefits outweigh the risks.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Can be used for some infections but requires frequent dosing and may be less effective for syphilis.
Evidence: Well-establishedAlternative for syphilis in non-pregnant penicillin-allergic patients.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
No specific interactions with vaccines. However, if you are receiving this medicine for an active infection, it is best to postpone vaccinations until you have recovered, unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C
❌ DON'T
Do not freeze
✅ DO
Keep in the original carton to protect from light
❌ DON'T
Do not store at room temperature for prolonged periods
✅ DO
Bring to room temperature before injection
❌ DON'T
Do not use if the solution is discolored or contains particles
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
If you need to travel while on this medicine, carry your prescription and a doctor's note explaining the need for injections. Keep the medicine in its original packaging in a cool, refrigerated condition if possible. For air travel, carry it in your hand luggage with a cool pack. Inform security about your medical condition. Plan your doses around your travel schedule; if a dose is due during travel, arrange for a healthcare professional at your destination to administer it.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: The medicine starts working within hours, but symptoms of syphilis may take a few days to improve. For rheumatic fever prevention, it provides protection for 3 to 4 weeks.
A: The injection can cause pain and swelling at the site, which usually lasts a few days. Applying a cold pack can help.
A: Yes, it is the preferred treatment for syphilis in pregnancy to prevent passing the infection to the baby. Consult your doctor.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for benzathine 1200000iu injection
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
pencom 12 injectionAlembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹10.89 6.1% CHEAPER
-
penidure la 12 injectionPfizer Ltd ₹21.14 82.2% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Benzathine penicillin is only for syphilis.
Fact: It is also used for rheumatic fever prophylaxis and other streptococcal infections. - Myth: You can self-administer benzathine penicillin at home.
Fact: It must be given by a healthcare professional due to the risk of serious allergic reactions and nerve injury. - Myth: Benzathine penicillin is safe for everyone.
Fact: It is contraindicated in people with penicillin allergy.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Benzathine penicillin G 1200000 IU injection (various manufacturers)
Brand Alternatives
- Benzathine 1200000iu injection