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

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

Cephalosporins are classified into generations based on their antimicrobial properties. The five generations of cephalosporins are:

1. First-generation cephalosporins - These are effective against gram-positive bacteria and include drugs like cefazolin and cephalexin.
2. Second-generation cephalosporins - These have a greater gram-negative spectrum and include cefaclor and cefuroxime.
3. Third-generation cephalosporins - These have a high degree of effectiveness against gram-negative bacteria and include ceftazidime and ceftriaxone.
4. Fourth-generation cephalosporins - These have a broader spectrum of anti-bacterial activity and include cefepime.
5. Fifth-generation cephalosporins - These are effective against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and include ceftaroline.

Mechanism of Action

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

Common side effects of cephalosporins include diarrhea, nausea, rash, and allergy. Severe allergic reactions can lead to anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Resistance

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

• Antibiotic resistance
• Beta-lactamase
• Penicillin-binding protein
• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

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