Cefuzonam

Cefuzonam is a cephalosporin antibiotic used in the treatment of various bacterial infections. It belongs to the third generation of cephalosporins, a class of beta-lactam antibiotics that inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis.

Mechanism of Action

Cefuzonam, like other cephalosporins, works by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. It binds to specific penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall. This binding leads to the inhibition of the third and last stage of bacterial cell wall synthesis, which is ultimately lethal to the bacteria.

Medical Uses

Cefuzonam is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including those caused by Gram-positive bacteria and Gram-negative bacteria. It is particularly effective against infections caused by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis.

Side Effects

Common side effects of cefuzonam include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and allergic reactions. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and anaphylaxis.

Drug Interactions

Cefuzonam may interact with other drugs, particularly those that are nephrotoxic or that alter kidney function. These include aminoglycosides, diuretics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

See Also

• Cephalosporin
• Beta-lactam antibiotics
• Penicillin-binding proteins
• Gram-positive bacteria
• Gram-negative bacteria
• Escherichia coli
• Klebsiella pneumoniae
• Proteus mirabilis
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome
• Anaphylaxis
• Aminoglycosides
• Diuretics
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs