PENICILLIN G & CLAVULANIC ACID (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: Recently, two domestic drug-makers have been poised to commence production of penicillin G and clavulanic acid this year, aided by the government's production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme.

Penicillin G

• About: Benzylpenicillin, also known as penicillin G or BENPEN, is an antibiotic used to treat a number of bacterial infections.
• The first penicillin discovered: It was effective against Gram-positive bacteria.
• Use for disease: This includes pneumonia, strep throat, syphilis, necrotizing enterocolitis, diphtheria, gas gangrene, leptospirosis, cellulitis, and tetanus. 
• Production: The production of Penicillin G in India ceased due to the influx of cheaper Chinese alternatives.
• Administration and Absorption of Penicillin G: Due to poor oral absorption, Penicillin G is commonly administered intravenously or intramuscularly.
• Side effects: diarrhea, seizures, and allergic reactions including anaphylaxis.
• Reason for closures of industry in 1990’s:Approximately five Indian companies, including Torrent, were manufacturing Penicillin G in the 90s.

oLow prices of Chinese products forced Indian manufacturers out of business, leading to plant closures.

Clavulanic Acid

• About: It is indicated for use alongside amoxicillin to combat bacterial infections, particularly those caused by beta-lactamase-producing bacteria.
• Mechanism of Action: As a beta-lactamase inhibitor, clavulanic acid works by preventing bacterial enzymes from degrading amoxicillin, thus extending its antibacterial activity against beta-lactamase-producing pathogens.