Nomenclature check: Penicillin G is correctly known by which chemical name?
-
AHydroxy benzyl penicillin
-
BPhenoxy methyl penicillin
-
CBenzyl penicillin
-
D2-pentenyl penicillin
-
ECarboxybenzyl penicillin
Answer
Correct Answer: Benzyl penicillin
Explanation
Introduction / Context: Drug nomenclature can be confusing because common names, chemical descriptors, and letter suffixes coexist. Penicillin G and penicillin V are frequently contrasted in exams.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Penicillin G vs penicillin V: different side chains and acid stability.
- We must select the proper synonym for penicillin G.
Concept / Approach: Penicillin G is benzyl penicillin. Penicillin V is phenoxymethyl penicillin, more acid-stable and suitable for oral dosing. Recognizing these helps with therapeutic choices and historical context.
Step-by-Step Solution: Match: Penicillin G → benzyl side chain → benzyl penicillin. Exclude: phenoxymethyl penicillin → penicillin V. Other descriptors do not correspond to standard nomenclature. Select “Benzyl penicillin”.
Verification / Alternative check: Pharmacopoeias and formularies list penicillin G as benzylpenicillin; penicillin V as phenoxymethylpenicillin.
Why Other Options Are Wrong: They either name penicillin V or are not accepted names for penicillin G.
Common Pitfalls: Mixing up G and V; remember V = phenoxymethyl, better oral stability.
Final Answer: Benzyl penicillin.