Antibiotics

The wonder drugs of the medical field, serve as the ultimate weapon against bacterial infections. These medications are specifically designed to combat bacteria by either eliminating them or restricting their growth. It is crucial to note, however, that antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections, as they solely target bacteria.

PENICILLIN

The penicillin group of antibiotics includes natural extracts from several strains of the Penicillium mold and a number of semisynthetic derivatives. Of many natural fermentation products first developed in the early 1940’s.

Major groups of Penicillin drugs:

• Penicillin G - first penicillin in extensive clinical use; still considered a first line drug against most gram positive bacteria

(except penicillinase-producing staphylococci) when given by IM injection; virtually non toxic to human cells, thus can be given safely in large amounts; widely distributed in the body, very low cost; major disadvantages are irregular oral absorption, destruction by gastric acid, inactivation by penicillinase enzyme, and rather narrow antimicrobial spectrum of action.

Semisynthetic Derivatives:

• Penicillin V - semisynthetic analogue of penicillin G with similar spectrum of activity; more completely absorbed orally than penicillin G and not destroyed by gastric acid, thus yielding three to five times higher blood levels

Nursing Interventions:

• Send a sample of material from the infected area to the laboratory for culture to determine antibiotic susceptibility before antibiotic therapy is started.

• Check for signs and symptoms of superinfection, especially for clients taking high doses of the antibiotic for a prolonged time. Signs and symptoms include stomatitis, genital discharge, and anal and genital itching.

• Examine client for allergic reaction to the penicillin product, especially after the first and second doses. This may be a mild reaction such as a rash, or a severe reaction, such as respiratory distress or anaphylaxis.

• Have epinephrine available to counteract a severe allergic reaction.

• Do not mix aminoglycosides with a higher-dose or extended spectrum penicillin G because this combination may inactivate the aminoglycoside.

• Check client for bleeding if high doses of penicillin are being given; a decrease in platelet aggregation may result.

• Food may decrease the absorption of many oral penicillin, so those penicillins should be taken with a full glass of water 1 hour before food intake or 2 hours after.

• Amoxicillin and Bacampicillin are penicillins that are unaffected by food.

Broad Spectrum Penicillin

• Broad Spectrum Penicillins are used to treat both gram positive and negative bacteria.

• Effective against some gram negative bacteria: Escherichia Col, Haemophilus Influenzae, Shigella

• Dysenteriae, Proteus Mirabilis, and Salmonella

EXAMPLES

• Ampicillin Omnipen, Ampicin)

• Ampicillin + Sulbactam (Unasyn)

• Amoxicillin (Amoxil)

• Amoxicillin + Clavulanate (Augmentin)

• Bacampicillin (Spectrobid)

Penicillinase Resistant Penicillin

• Penicillinase Resistant Penicillins (antistaphylococcal Penicillin) are used to treat penicillinase-producing staphylococcus aureus.

EXAMPLES

• Cloxacillin (Tegopen)

• Dicloxacillin Sodium (Dynapen)

• Methicillin (Staphcillin)

• Naficillin (Nafcin)

• Oxacillin Sodium (Prostphlin)

Extended Spectrum Penicillin

• Antipseudomonal penicillins are aa group of broad spectrum penicillin.

• Effective against Pseudomonas Aeruginosa, gram negative Bacillus, Proteus, Serratia, Klebsiella Pneumoniae, Enterobacter and Acinetobacter

EXAMPLES

• Carbenicillin (Geopen)

• Mezlocillin Sodium (Mezlin)

• Piperacillin-Tazobactam (Cypercil)

• Ticarcillin

• Ticarcillin + Clavulanate

Benefits and Adverse Effects of Penicillin

Penicillin is a widely used antibiotic that has both benefits and potential adverse effects. Here is a brief review of its advantages and disadvantages:

Benefits:

1. Effective against a wide range of bacterial infections.

2. Treats various respiratory tract infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis.

3. Effective against skin and soft tissue infections, including cellulitis.

4. Can be used to treat certain sexually transmitted infections, like syphilis and gonorrhea.

5. Helps prevent complications from certain infections, such as rheumatic fever.

Adverse Effects:

1. Allergic reactions, ranging from mild rashes to severe anaphylaxis.

2. Gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

3. Potential for antibiotic resistance development in bacteria.

4. Rarely, penicillin can cause serious side effects like kidney damage or blood disorders.

5. Some individuals may experience drug interactions or have contraindications to penicillin use.

It is important to note that this is a general overview, and individual responses to penicillin may vary. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.