Benzathine penicillin (also called Bicillin LA) is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as rheumatic fever and syphilis. It is also given to prevent conditions like rheumatic fever and poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (a form of kidney inflammation).
Benzathine penicillin works by killing or stopping the growth of bacteria (bugs). It belongs to a group of antibiotics called penicillins. Like all antibiotics, benzathine penicillin is not effective against infections caused by viruses. Benzathine penicillin is available as an injection that is given into a muscle.
Low or no data? Visit zero.govt.nz, scroll down the page then click on our logo to return to our site and browse for free.
Benzathine penicillin
Sounds like 'ben-zah-theen pen-ih-sil-in'
Key points about benzathine penicillin
- Benzathine penicillin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as rheumatic fever and syphilis.
- Benzathine penicillin is also called Bicillin LA.
- Find out how it is given and possible side effects.
![blue unaunahi tile generic](/assets/Introduction-Images/blue_unaunahi_tile_generic.png)
A doctor or a nurse will give you this medicine. Tell them if you have ever had an allergic reaction to penicillin or any other medicine. |
---|
- Injection site: Benzathine penicillin is given by injecting it into a large muscle in your buttock (bottom) in adults and older children, or in the thigh (infants and small children). This is called an intramuscular injection.
- Pain relief: Benzathine penicillin is sometimes given with a local anaesthetic to relieve discomfort during the injection. If you have allergies to local anaesthetics tell your doctor or nurse.
- Number of doses: Some people may need 2 doses, which is given as 1 injection into each buttock at the same visit. Some people only need to have benzathine penicillin once, but others will need to come back for more doses every few weeks, or complete a course of treatment. Ask your doctor or nurse what the plan is for you and your condition.
- After your injection: After receiving your injection, you will be asked to wait in the clinic for 15 minutes. If you have any reaction following treatment (eg, a rash, itchiness or breathing difficulties), please tell a staff member immediately.
Like all medicines, benzathine penicillin can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Often side effects improve as your body gets used to the new medicine.
Side effects | What should I do? |
---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Read more about medicines and side effects and reporting a reaction you think might be a side effect. |
References
- Benzathine penicillin(external link) NZ Formulary
- Stop sore throats(external link) Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
Credits: Sandra Ponen, Pharmacist, Healthify He Puna Waiora. Healthify is brought to you by Health Navigator Charitable Trust.
Reviewed by: Angela Lambie, Pharmacist, Auckland
Last reviewed:
Page last updated: