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.

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