Introduction-to-Penicillins-Chemotherapy.pptx

1. Introduction to
Penicillins
Chemotherapy
Penicillins are a class of antibiotics used to treat various bacterial
infections. They work by inhibiting the formation of bacterial cell walls,
leading to the eventual destruction of the bacteria.
S
by
Prof. Sudha Unmesh Puri
Assistant Professor
Department of Pharmacology
JSPM’s Jayawantrao Sawant College of Pharmacy and Research

2. History of Penicillins
1 Discovery by Alexander Fleming
The first known Penicillin, Penicillin G, was discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928. Its
widespread introduction marked the beginning of modern antibiotic chemotherapy.
2 Mass Production in the 1940s
With the onset of World War II, the mass production of Penicillin was initiated, leading to
an exponential increase in its availability and usage.
3 Modern Developments
Further research and development have led to the creation of semi-synthetic Penicillins,
broadening the spectrum of treatable infections.
Prof. Sudha Unmesh Puri

3. Mechanism of Action of
Penicillins
1 Inhibition of Cell Wall
Synthesis
Penicillins disrupt the formation of
peptidoglycan cross-links in the
bacterial cell wall, leading to
bacterial cell death.
2 Specificity for Bacterial
Cells
They have a selective action as they
target the structural components
unique to bacterial cells, sparing
human cells.
3 Time- and Concentration-Dependent Killing
Their efficacy is related to the duration and concentration of drug exposure.
Prof. Sudha Unmesh Puri

4. Types of Penicillins
Natural Penicillins
Include Penicillin G and
Penicillin V. They are effective
against many Gram-positive
bacteria.
Penicillinase-
Resistant Penicillins
Developed to counteract
beta-lactamase-producing
bacteria. Examples include
oxacillin and dicloxacillin.
Extended-Spectrum
Penicillins
Have a broader spectrum of
activity, including some Gram-
negative bacteria. This group
includes ampicillin and
amoxicillin.
Prof. Sudha Unmesh Puri

5. Indications for Penicillins
Chemotherapy
Bacterial Infections
Penicillins are commonly used for a wide range of
bacterial infections, including streptococcal
pharyngitis and penicillin-sensitive staphylococcal
infections.
Syphilis Treatment
It's an effective antibiotic for treating all stages of
syphilis, including congenital syphilis.
Prof. Sudha Unmesh Puri

6. Dosage and Administration of
Penicillins
Oral Administration
Most Penicillins can be taken orally, ensuring
convenient at-home treatment for many
infections.
Parenteral Administration
Some patients may require intramuscular or
intravenous administration for more severe
infections.
Prof. Sudha Unmesh Puri

7. Side Effects of Penicillins
Common Reactions
Allergic reactions and gastrointestinal disturbances are among the most
common side effects of Penicillins.
Less Common Effects
Less common side effects include neurotoxicity and hematologic
abnormalities.
Prof. Sudha Unmesh Puri

8. Resistance to Penicillins
1 Beta-Lactamase Production
Many bacteria produce beta-
lactamases, enzymes that inactivate
Penicillins, leading to resistance.
2 Change in Penicillin-
Binding Proteins
Mutations in penicillin-binding
proteins can reduce the affinity for
Penicillins, resulting in resistance.
Prof. Sudha Unmesh Puri

9. Comparison of Penicillins with Other
Antibiotics
Penicillins Cephalosporins Macrolides
Effective against gram-
positive bacteria
Broad-spectrum coverage Effective against atypical
bacteria
Prof. Sudha Unmesh Puri

10. Conclusion and Future Prospects of
Penicillins Chemotherapy
Impact on Medicine
Penicillins have revolutionized medicine, saving
countless lives and providing hope for the
treatment of bacterial infections.
Future Challenges
Emergence of antibiotic resistance and the need
for novel agents pose significant challenges for
the future of Penicillin therapy.
Prof. Sudha Unmesh Puri