The ArchiMed team looks back at the history of penicillin G and the current issues surrounding this antibiotic in a medical article published in March 2025
Two members of our team (Laurence Toutous Trellu et Myriam Lamrayah) published recently an article in the Revue Médicale Suisse (https://www.revmed.ch). This paper highlights significant challenges in treating syphilis due to shortages of benzathine benzylpenicillin, the primary antibiotic used for this infection (article in french).
# Why penicillin G matters
Penicillin G, particularly in its long-acting form known as benzathine benzylpenicillin, has been the cornerstone treatment for syphilis since the 1940s. It remains the most effective option, especially for pregnant women, as it prevents transmission of the disease to the unborn child.
# The problem of global shortages
Despite its importance, healthcare providers worldwide are facing regular shortages of benzathine benzylpenicillin. These supply issues complicate the management of syphilis.
# Local solutions in Geneva
At Geneva University Hospitals (HUG), pharmacy teams have implemented proactive strategies to mitigate these access difficulties. Through interprofessional collaboration with dermatology and infectious diseases services, they have developed logistical plans to ensure a steady supply of the antibiotic, aiming to prevent treatment disruptions.
# Broader implications
The challenges faced in Geneva reflect a global issue. With syphilis cases on the rise, particularly among certain high-risk groups, the demand for effective treatment is increasing. The lack of alternative antibiotics that are as effective and safe as penicillin G exacerbates the problem. Ensuring the availability of benzathine benzylpenicillin is thus crucial for effective syphilis treatment and public health.
To go further :
- Guidelines for treatment of syphilis by CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
"Sir Alexander Fleming, the Discoverer of Penicillin", painted in 1944 by the artist Ethel Léontine Gabain, Imperial War Museums.
Illustration picture from National Museum of American History.
21 Jan 2025