Crystapen

What is it?

A preparation of penicillin which is sensitive to penicillinase called penicillin G. It is an antibiotic which is inactivated by the penicillinase enzymes produced by certain bacteria. It is inactivated by stomach (gastric) juices and poorly absorbed from the gut and is produced as an unbuffered powder in vials for reconstitution and injection. Available in two strengths containing 600mg or 1200mg of penicillin G sodium.

Medical Uses

Gonorrhoea, septicaemia, endocarditis, osteomyelitis, meningitis, respiratory tract, ear, nose and throat, skin and soft tissue infections.

Dosage

Adults, 600-1200mg by intravenous or intramuscular injection each day in 2, 3 or 4 divided doses. For meningitis, up to 14.4g daily in divided doses may be needed; for suspected meningitis, 1200mg by intravenous or intramuscular injection. Children, newborns under 1 week old, 50mg per kg of body weight in 2 divided doses; 1 week to 1 month, 75mg/kg of body weight each day in 3 divided doses; 1 month to 12 years, 100mg per kg each day in 4 divided doses. For meningitis, age less than 1 week 100mg per kg each day in 2 divided doses; 1 week to 1 month, 150mg per kg each day in 3 divided doses; 1 month to 12 years, 180-300mg per kg each day in 4, 5 or 6 divided doses (maximum dose is 12g each day). Suspected meningitis, aged less than 12 months, 300mg; aged 1 to 9 years, 600mg; more than 10 years, 1200mg. All doses are delivered by intravenous or intramuscular injection.

Known Side Effects

Allergic responses, gastrointestinal effects.

Manufacturer

Britannia.