Nomenclature check: Penicillin G is correctly known by which chemical name?

Difficulty: Easy

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.

More Questions from Industrially Useful Microbial Processes

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion