Penicillin was discovered in 1928 by Dr. Fleming, but it was not until 1940 that a group of researchers succeeded in producing 100 milligrams use for a conclusive test on mice infected with a lethal dose. It's a miracle exclaims one of the researchers.
It was difficult to produce in large quantities because of the war in Europe. Florey, a doctor's research group went to the United States. Researchers discover, by examining the mold on a cantaloupe, a method to produce penicillin on an industrial scale.
Penicillin is the first antibiotic. It cures infections and microbial diseases. It saved many casualties of war. In 1945, Fleming, Florey and Chain received the Nobel Prize in physiology and medicine.
There are few side effects due to penicillin. They are limited to allergy and rarely, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
Allergy caused by penicillin is usually benign. It is serious for only 1 case of allergy in 10 000. In its mild form, the symptom is the rash. Stopping the penicillin unless the use is vital. In its severe form of allergy is the sudden drop in blood pressure that requires emergency treatment with epinephrine. The experience of a severe allergy means to stop the use of penicillin.
People allergic to penicillin should carry some information describing allergy and type of penicillin.
13 avril 2010
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