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:
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.
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