Almecillin

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

Almecillin[edit | edit source]

Chemical structure of Penicillin O, a related compound

Almecillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic belonging to the penicillin class of antibiotics. It is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. Almecillin is a semi-synthetic derivative of penicillin, designed to improve the spectrum of activity and pharmacokinetic properties compared to natural penicillins.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Almecillin works by interfering with the synthesis of the peptidoglycan layer of bacterial cell walls. It binds to and inactivates penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), which are essential for the cross-linking of the peptidoglycan chains. This action leads to the weakening of the cell wall and eventually causes cell lysis and death in susceptible bacteria.

Spectrum of Activity[edit | edit source]

Almecillin is effective against a range of Gram-positive bacteria and some Gram-negative bacteria. It is particularly useful in treating infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Haemophilus influenzae. However, its efficacy can be limited by the presence of beta-lactamase enzymes produced by some bacteria, which can hydrolyze the beta-lactam ring and render the antibiotic inactive.

Pharmacokinetics[edit | edit source]

Almecillin is typically administered orally and is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It is distributed widely in body tissues and fluids, including the cerebrospinal fluid when the meninges are inflamed. The drug is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine, and its elimination half-life is relatively short, necessitating frequent dosing to maintain effective concentrations.

Clinical Uses[edit | edit source]

Almecillin is used to treat a variety of infections, including:

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of almecillin include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Allergic reactions, ranging from mild rashes to severe anaphylaxis, can occur in individuals with a history of penicillin allergy.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD