Penicillin G Sodium

Disclaimer to the Online Edition

This Manual has been designed for use in the NICU at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), London, Ontario, Canada, and represents clinical practice at this institution. The information contained within the Manual may not be applicable to other centres. If users of this Manual are not familiar with a drug, it is recommended that the official monograph be consulted before it is prescribed and administered. Any user of this information is advised that the contributors, Editor and LHSC are not responsible for any errors or omissions, and / or any consequences arising from the use of the information in this Manual.

Penicillin G Sodium

Indication

  • The treatment of infections caused by susceptible bacteria (generally, some Gram-positive organisms)
  • Antibiotic of choice for Group B Streptococcus and congenital syphilis

Dosage Guidelines

  • Meningitis:
    • 0 to 7 days = 150,000 units/kg/dose IV/IM q8h
    • Greater than 7 days = 125,000 units/kg/dose IV/IM q6h
  • Other Infections:

Age

Weight less than 2 kg

Weight 2 kg or greater

0 to 7 days

25,000 units/kg/dose IV/IM q12h

25,000 units/kg/dose IV/IM q8h

Greater than 7 days

25,000 units/kg/dose IV/IM q8h

25,000 units/kg/dose IV/IM q6h

  • Congenital Syphilis: 50,000 units/kg/dose IV/IM q12h x 7 days then q8h to complete a 10-day course

Administration

  • IV intermittent slow infusion over 30 minutes
    • Reconstitution: Add 9.8 mL sterile water for injection to 1,000,000 unit vial
    • (final concentration = 100,000 units/mL)
  • IM (if no IV available)
    • Reconstitution: Add 1.8 mL sterile water for injection to 1,000,000 unit vial
    • (final concentration = 500,000 units/mL)

Adverse Effects

  • CNS irritation and convulsions can occur with high doses
  • Thrombophlebitis
  • Acute interstitial nephritis (with prolonged therapy) with fever, proteinuria and hematuria

Comments

  • Contains 1.7 mmol sodium per 1,000,000 units
  • Extend dosing interval in renal impairment

Supplied As

  • 1,000,000 unit vial
  • 100,000 unit/mL patient specific syringe, prepared by Pharmacy