Penicillins are beta-lactam antibiotics derived from 6-aminopenicillanic acid. They act by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, exposing the osmotically unstable cell membrane and causing bacterial cell lysis. Penicillins are classified based on their spectrum of activity, resistance to penicillinase, and stability in acid environments. Common classes include penicillin G, broad-spectrum penicillins, and penicillinase-resistant penicillins. Penicillins are mostly excreted unchanged in urine, with some protein binding. Adverse effects include hypersensitivity reactions and superinfections.