Antibiotic intermediates (6-APA, 7-ACA): Characteristics
Why moisture is the enemy of the beta-lactam ring
What this tab covers The physical and chemical properties that set its grade, price and uses, with the commercial grades and the standards that define them.Intermediates are sold on purity, colour and residual solvent, because these carry into the final antibiotic. 6-APA must be low in penicillin G and polymer impurities, which can cause allergic reactions.
Properties that matter commercially
| Property | Value / specification | Why it matters | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity | 6-APA typically at least 98% (indicative) | downstream yield and impurities | indicative |
| Stability | beta-lactam ring hydrolyses in moisture | requires dry, cool storage | qualitative |
Commercial grades
- Penicillin G potassium industrial salt
- Penicillin G sodium (sterile API)
- 6-APA
- 7-ACA
- 7-ADCA
- Clavulanate potassium