For long-term prevention of rheumatic fever complications, how often should Benzathine PCN be administered?

Benzathine penicillin (Benzathine PCN) is administered for the long-term prevention of rheumatic fever complications, particularly in individuals who have a history of rheumatic heart disease. The primary goal of this preventive therapy is to reduce the risk of subsequent streptococcal infections, which can trigger further episodes of rheumatic fever and worsen heart damage.

The recommended schedule for the administration of Benzathine PCN for secondary prophylaxis is typically every 4 weeks. This regular dosing schedule helps maintain adequate therapeutic levels of the medication in the bloodstream to effectively prevent infections. It is crucial for patients to adhere to this schedule for optimal protection against the complications associated with rheumatic fever.

Other dosing regimens, such as administration every month or every 6 months, may not provide the continuous level of protection needed, as the risk of streptococcal infection persists beyond those intervals. Weekly administration would also be excessive, as the 4-week interval is well-established and balances effectiveness with patient compliance and convenience. Thus, the correct answer is every 4 weeks to ensure effective long-term prevention of rheumatic fever and its complications.