Penicillin G

Information about Penicillin G

Penicillin g uses

Penicillin G is used in the treatment of bacterial infections, syphilis and rheumatic fever.

How penicillin g works

Penicillin G is an antibiotic. It kills bacteria by preventing them from forming the bacterial protective covering (cell wall) which is needed for them to survive.

Common side effects of penicillin g

Injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness), Vomiting, Nausea, Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils), Positive Coombs test, Increased potassium level in blood, Hypersensitivity, Serum sickness, Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction, Pseudomembranous colitis, Increased reflexes, Myoclonic contractions, Seizure, Renal tubular damage, Interstitial nephritis, Phlebitis

Available Medicine for Penicillin G

Expert advice for Penicillin G

  • You have been prescribed Penicillin G for the treatment of bacterial infections.
  • It is given by an injection into a vein or muscle, or via a drip into a vein. 
  • Finish the prescribed course, even if you start to feel better. Stopping it early may make the infection come back and harder to treat.
  • Inform your doctor immediately if you develop an itchy rash, swelling of the face, throat or tongue or breathing difficulties while taking this medicine.

Frequently asked questions for Penicillin G

Penicillin G

Q. What should I discuss with my doctor before receiving Penicillin G?
Before taking Penicillin G, you should tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to Penicillin G or any similar medicine. Inform the doctor if you have any type of allergy, asthma or breathing problems, heart disease or kidney disease. Let your doctor know about all the medicines that you may be taking as they may affect or be affected by Penicillin G. Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers should also seek their doctor’s advice before taking Penicillin G.
Q. Why does Penicillin G shot hurt so much?
Penicillin G is injected deeply into the muscle, usually into the butt muscle, using a lot of fluid used to inject it. Moreover, it is injected slowly which makes it even more painful.
Q. How is Penicillin G given?
Penicillin G must be injected slowly and deeply into a muscle of the buttock or hip. Do not inject this medicine near or into an artery, vein, or nerve as it could lead to some serious side effects.
Show More
Q. The solution looks discolored. Can I still use Penicillin G?
No. You should not use Penicillin G if the medicine has changed colors or has particles in it. The discolored solution may be contaminated and may not be as effective as it is expected to be. Also, it may cause additional side effects. So, it is better, that you discard the solution and go for another vial.
Q. I feel better now. Can I stop taking Penicillin G?
No. Make sure to receive all doses your doctor has prescribed, even if you feel better. This is because your symptoms may have improved but chances are that the infection is still present in your body. Skipping doses can increase the risk of developing an infection that is resistant to medication. So, continue taking Penicillin G as prescribed. After you have finished all the doses, your doctor may advise you on some tests to make sure your infection has completely cleared up.
Q. Does Penicillin G treat the flu?
No. Penicillin G does not treat a viral infection such as the flu or a common cold.
Q. Can Penicillin G cause an allergic reaction?
Yes. Penicillin G may cause an allergic reaction, although it is rare. Get emergency medical help if you have any of the signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Content on this page was last updated on 13 June, 2023, by Dr. Varun Gupta (MD Pharmacology)