Drug of choice for primary prophylaxis for acute rheumatic fever?
I must point out that the subject/topic is not Anatomy but rather Pharmacology/Infectious Diseases. Here's the explanation:
**Core Concept**
Benzathine penicillin is a long-acting benzylpenicillin preparation used for the prophylaxis of rheumatic fever. It is administered intramuscularly to provide prolonged bacteriostatic concentrations of penicillin against Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci (GABHS).
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Benzathine penicillin is the preferred agent for primary prophylaxis of acute rheumatic fever because it provides a sustained release of penicillin, ensuring adequate tissue concentrations for an extended period. This is crucial in preventing the recurrence of rheumatic fever. The recommended dose is 1.2 million units, which is administered intramuscularly every 3-4 weeks. This regimen helps maintain bacteriostatic concentrations of penicillin, thereby preventing the re-emergence of GABHS.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** The dose of 1.2 million units is correct, but the unit of measurement is incorrect; 1.2 lakh units is 120,000 units, which is too low for prophylaxis.
**Option B:** This option has the correct dose, but the unit of measurement is incorrect; 1.2 lakh units is 120,000 units, which is too low for prophylaxis.
**Option C:** While benzathine penicillin is the correct agent, the dose is too low; 1.2 lakh units is 120,000 units, which is insufficient for effective prophylaxis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
To remember the correct dose, recall that benzathine penicillin is administered at a dose of 1.2 million units (1,200,000 units) every 3-4 weeks for primary prophylaxis of acute rheumatic fever. This dose is crucial in preventing the recurrence of rheumatic fever.
**β Correct Answer: D. Benzathine penicillin-1.2 million units**