Β-Lactamase inhibitor

Β-Lactamase inhibitors are a class of medication that are used in combination with β-lactam antibiotics to combat bacterial resistance to these antibiotics. They work by inhibiting the action of β-lactamase enzymes, which are produced by some bacteria and can break down β-lactam antibiotics, rendering them ineffective.

Mechanism of Action

Β-Lactamase inhibitors work by binding to the active site of the β-lactamase enzyme, preventing it from breaking down the β-lactam antibiotic. This allows the antibiotic to remain active and kill the bacteria. Some β-lactamase inhibitors, such as clavulanic acid, are themselves β-lactam compounds, but they have a higher affinity for the β-lactamase enzyme than the antibiotic does, so they are preferentially broken down by the enzyme.

Clinical Use

Β-Lactamase inhibitors are used in combination with β-lactam antibiotics to treat infections caused by β-lactamase-producing bacteria. These bacteria are often resistant to β-lactam antibiotics alone, but the addition of a β-lactamase inhibitor can overcome this resistance. Common combinations include amoxicillin with clavulanic acid (sold under the brand name Augmentin) and piperacillin with tazobactam (sold under the brand name Zosyn).

Side Effects

Like all medications, β-lactamase inhibitors can have side effects. These can include allergic reactions, gastrointestinal upset, and in rare cases, liver damage. However, these side effects are generally less common and less severe than those associated with many other types of antibiotics.

Research and Development

Research is ongoing to develop new β-lactamase inhibitors to combat the growing problem of antibiotic resistance. This includes the development of inhibitors that can target a wider range of β-lactamase enzymes, as well as inhibitors that can be used with a wider range of β-lactam antibiotics.

See Also

• Antibiotic resistance
• β-lactam antibiotics
• Clavulanic acid
• Amoxicillin
• Piperacillin
• Tazobactam