PENICILLIN Meaning and
Definition
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Penicillin is a noun that refers to a group of antibiotics derived from the fungus Penicillium. It is a natural substance produced by certain molds, and it was the first antibiotic introduced for medical use. Penicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, meaning it is effective against a wide range of bacteria. It is commonly used to treat various bacterial infections in humans.
Penicillin works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, specifically by interfering with the synthesis of their cell walls. It does this by binding to specific proteins in the bacteria, preventing them from forming the necessary cross-links that give the cell wall its strength and integrity. Without a fully formed cell wall, bacteria are vulnerable to rupture and destruction.
Penicillin can be administered in various forms, including oral tablets, intramuscular injections, and intravenous drips. It is an important drug in the field of medicine and has been instrumental in the treatment of numerous bacterial infections, including strep throat, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and certain sexually transmitted diseases.
However, it is important to note that like any medication, penicillin can have side effects, ranging from mild allergic reactions to more severe conditions such as anaphylaxis. As a result, individuals with known allergies to penicillin or those with a history of severe reactions are advised to avoid its use.
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Etymology of PENICILLIN
The word "penicillin" is derived from the Latin word "penicillus", which means "brush" or "painter's brush". The name was given by the Scottish biologist Alexander Fleming, who discovered the antibiotic properties of the Penicillium fungus in 1928. He named it penicillin because the shape of the Penicillium spores reminded him of a bristle brush or paintbrush.
Similar spelling words for PENICILLIN
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