Cephapirin
Cephapirin[edit | edit source]
Cephapirin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used in the treatment of bacterial infections. It is a beta-lactam antibiotic, which means it works by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell lysis and death. Cephapirin is particularly effective against Gram-positive bacteria and some Gram-negative bacteria.
History[edit | edit source]
Cephapirin was developed in the 1960s and was one of the early cephalosporins introduced into clinical practice. It was initially used for a wide range of infections but has since been largely replaced by newer cephalosporins with broader spectra of activity.
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
Cephapirin, like other beta-lactam antibiotics, targets the penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located on the bacterial cell wall. By binding to these proteins, cephapirin inhibits the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis, which is crucial for bacterial cell wall integrity. This leads to the weakening of the cell wall and ultimately causes bacterial cell death.
Clinical Uses[edit | edit source]
Cephapirin is used in the treatment of infections caused by susceptible strains of bacteria. It is often used in veterinary medicine, particularly in the treatment of mastitis in dairy cattle. In human medicine, its use is limited due to the availability of more effective antibiotics.
Administration[edit | edit source]
Cephapirin can be administered via intramuscular or intravenous injection. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the type and severity of the infection being treated.
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Common side effects of cephapirin include allergic reactions, such as rash and itching, gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea, and, rarely, more severe hypersensitivity reactions. As with other antibiotics, the use of cephapirin can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Resistance[edit | edit source]
Bacterial resistance to cephapirin can occur through the production of beta-lactamase enzymes, which hydrolyze the beta-lactam ring, rendering the antibiotic ineffective. Resistance can also occur through alterations in PBPs or decreased permeability of the bacterial cell wall.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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