Cephalosporin antibiotic
Cephalosporin is a class of antibiotics originating from the fungus Acremonium, which was previously known as Cephalosporium. Cephalosporins are categorized as beta-lactam antibiotics, a broad class that also includes penicillins, carbapenems, and monobactams.
History[edit | edit source]
The discovery of cephalosporins dates back to 1945 when Italian scientist Giuseppe Brotzu isolated the substances from a sewage outlet in Sardinia. The antibiotic was later named cephalosporin C, which became the parent compound for subsequent generations of cephalosporins.
Classification[edit | edit source]
Cephalosporins are classified into generations based on their antimicrobial properties. The five generations of cephalosporins are:
- First-generation cephalosporins - These are effective against gram-positive bacteria and include drugs like cefazolin and cephalexin.
- Second-generation cephalosporins - These have a greater gram-negative spectrum and include cefaclor and cefuroxime.
- Third-generation cephalosporins - These have a high degree of effectiveness against gram-negative bacteria and include ceftazidime and ceftriaxone.
- Fourth-generation cephalosporins - These have a broader spectrum of anti-bacterial activity and include cefepime.
- Fifth-generation cephalosporins - These are effective against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and include ceftaroline.
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
Cephalosporins work by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. They bind to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located within the bacterial cell wall, leading to the death of the bacteria.
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Common side effects of cephalosporins include diarrhea, nausea, rash, and allergy. Severe allergic reactions can lead to anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition.
Resistance[edit | edit source]
Resistance to cephalosporins can occur through various mechanisms, including the production of beta-lactamase enzymes, alteration of PBPs, and changes in outer membrane proteins.
See Also[edit | edit source]
- Antibiotic resistance
- Beta-lactamase
- Penicillin-binding protein
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
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