Monobactams

Monobactams are a class of beta-lactam antibiotics that are structurally different from other beta-lactam antibiotics (penicillins, cephalosporins, carbapenems). They contain a monocyclic beta-lactam ring as opposed to the bicyclic ring common to other beta-lactams. The only monobactam available for clinical use is Aztreonam.

History[edit | edit source]

Monobactams were first discovered in the 1970s in the culture broths of Gram-negative bacteria. The first monobactam antibiotic, Aztreonam, was approved for clinical use in 1986.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Monobactams work by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. They bind to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in the bacterial cell wall, preventing the cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains necessary for bacterial cell wall strength and rigidity. This leads to cell lysis and death.

Clinical Use[edit | edit source]

Monobactams, specifically Aztreonam, are used to treat infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa. They are particularly useful in patients with allergies to other beta-lactam antibiotics, as they do not cross-react with these drugs.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of monobactams include rash, nausea, diarrhea, and occasional liver enzyme abnormalities. Severe allergic reactions are rare.

Resistance[edit | edit source]

Resistance to monobactams can occur through the production of beta-lactamases, enzymes that break down the beta-lactam ring, rendering the antibiotic ineffective. Some bacteria also modify their PBPs to reduce the binding affinity of the antibiotic.

Monobactams Resources
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