#항생제 Penicillin is ==a class of antibiotics derived from molds, discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928, that treats bacterial infections by damaging bacterial cell walls==. It is effective against many Gram-positive bacteria, including [Streptococcus](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=b86c91fa3b6f4170&sxsrf=AE3TifOZ3YGemqOD8ssr5hYByvg259956Q%3A1757184944797&q=Streptococcus&sa=X&sqi=2&ved=2ahUKEwj70cGD6MSPAxX4ia8BHSe2IrwQxccNegQIIBAB&mstk=AUtExfBn3mxmM3JdS_Iz7xp1hkIua_Y-zkwZaNp-1V4KD9urk3Io9nbiQ-Gzs4echc3lTEIdwCdMdTJjPYQzYgrKm0MdAk1odZRfqhp1MX5vl98myvuirtKsNnzbFqarA_S5ePlYPtbmG9w_2kGGxLFip48ptyokVdR400hLJ1iYhdT09g3fnJ9ryj9GQ8V8Gmi1V2aL-9ww8McGMLRvutzR-uogImCf8EAOCvYTUkS4qRqMW22YoFLEpn-0NoPuo6J1L1hwwXMJkbqJ-IBLb5GFkAGo&csui=3) and [Staphylococcus](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=b86c91fa3b6f4170&sxsrf=AE3TifOZ3YGemqOD8ssr5hYByvg259956Q%3A1757184944797&q=Staphylococcus&sa=X&sqi=2&ved=2ahUKEwj70cGD6MSPAxX4ia8BHSe2IrwQxccNegQIIBAC&mstk=AUtExfBn3mxmM3JdS_Iz7xp1hkIua_Y-zkwZaNp-1V4KD9urk3Io9nbiQ-Gzs4echc3lTEIdwCdMdTJjPYQzYgrKm0MdAk1odZRfqhp1MX5vl98myvuirtKsNnzbFqarA_S5ePlYPtbmG9w_2kGGxLFip48ptyokVdR400hLJ1iYhdT09g3fnJ9ryj9GQ8V8Gmi1V2aL-9ww8McGMLRvutzR-uogImCf8EAOCvYTUkS4qRqMW22YoFLEpn-0NoPuo6J1L1hwwXMJkbqJ-IBLb5GFkAGo&csui=3), but not viruses like the common cold or flu. Penicillin is available in oral and intravenous forms and is used for various infections, from skin and ear infections to respiratory and urinary tract infections.  How it works Penicillin is a [β-lactam antibiotic](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=b86c91fa3b6f4170&sxsrf=AE3TifOZ3YGemqOD8ssr5hYByvg259956Q%3A1757184944797&q=%CE%B2-lactam+antibiotic&sa=X&sqi=2&ved=2ahUKEwj70cGD6MSPAxX4ia8BHSe2IrwQxccNegQIHhAB&mstk=AUtExfBn3mxmM3JdS_Iz7xp1hkIua_Y-zkwZaNp-1V4KD9urk3Io9nbiQ-Gzs4echc3lTEIdwCdMdTJjPYQzYgrKm0MdAk1odZRfqhp1MX5vl98myvuirtKsNnzbFqarA_S5ePlYPtbmG9w_2kGGxLFip48ptyokVdR400hLJ1iYhdT09g3fnJ9ryj9GQ8V8Gmi1V2aL-9ww8McGMLRvutzR-uogImCf8EAOCvYTUkS4qRqMW22YoFLEpn-0NoPuo6J1L1hwwXMJkbqJ-IBLb5GFkAGo&csui=3) that kills bacteria by interfering with their ability to build their cell walls. This weakens the bacteria and allows the body's immune system to fight off the infection more effectively.  Types of penicillin - **Natural penicillins:** Include penicillin G and penicillin V, the original purified compounds used clinically.  - **Semi-synthetic penicillins:** Modified natural penicillins, such as penicillinase-resistant penicillins, aminopenicillins, and extended-spectrum penicillins, have a broader range of activity.  - **Combination medications:** These combine penicillin with other drugs, like Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanic acid), to broaden their effectiveness.  Uses Penicillin treats bacterial infections such as:  - Skin and skin structure infections - Dental infections - Ear infections - Nose, throat, and lung infections - Urinary tract infections (UTIs) - [Strep throat](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=b86c91fa3b6f4170&sxsrf=AE3TifOZ3YGemqOD8ssr5hYByvg259956Q%3A1757184944797&q=Strep+throat&sa=X&sqi=2&ved=2ahUKEwj70cGD6MSPAxX4ia8BHSe2IrwQxccNegUImwEQAQ&mstk=AUtExfBn3mxmM3JdS_Iz7xp1hkIua_Y-zkwZaNp-1V4KD9urk3Io9nbiQ-Gzs4echc3lTEIdwCdMdTJjPYQzYgrKm0MdAk1odZRfqhp1MX5vl98myvuirtKsNnzbFqarA_S5ePlYPtbmG9w_2kGGxLFip48ptyokVdR400hLJ1iYhdT09g3fnJ9ryj9GQ8V8Gmi1V2aL-9ww8McGMLRvutzR-uogImCf8EAOCvYTUkS4qRqMW22YoFLEpn-0NoPuo6J1L1hwwXMJkbqJ-IBLb5GFkAGo&csui=3) and rheumatic fever prevention Important considerations - **Bacterial resistance:** Overuse of antibiotics has led to the development of penicillin-resistant bacteria, reducing its effectiveness for some infections.  - **Side effects:** Common side effects include skin rashes, hives, diarrhea, and nausea.  - **Allergies:** Hypersensitivity is the major adverse effect associated with penicillin.  - **Viral infections:** Penicillin is ineffective against viral infections like the common cold and flu.  - **Pregnancy and breastfeeding:** Penicillin is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but you should consult your doctor.