Cephalosporins

Structure

Cephalosporins have a beta-lactam ring similar to penicillin, but they have a six-membered dihydrothiazine ring instead of the five-membered thiazolidine ring found in penicillin.

Generations

Cephalosporins are classified into five generations based on their spectrum of activity and resistance to beta-lactamases.

First-generation cephalosporins: Effective against Gram-positive bacteria
Second-generation cephalosporins: Broader spectrum, including some Gram-negative bacteria
Third-generation cephalosporins: Effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas
Fourth-generation cephalosporins: Broader spectrum with increased resistance to beta-lactamases
Fifth-generation cephalosporins: Broad spectrum with activity against multidrug-resistant Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria

Uses

Cephalosporins are used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and meningitis.

Adverse Effects

Common adverse effects of cephalosporins include gastrointestinal disturbances, allergic reactions, and potential for superinfections. Cross-reactivity with penicillin allergy may occur.

Examples

Some examples of cephalosporins include:

Cephalexin (first-generation)
Cefuroxime (second-generation)
Ceftriaxone (third-generation)
Cefepime (fourth-generation)
Ceftaroline (fifth-generation)

Mechanism of Action

Cephalosporins inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to cell lysis and death.

Resistance

◂Biology Worksheets and Study Guides High School. Invertebrates

Vocabulary/Answer key

Invertebrates I

Vocabulary/Answer key

Invertebrates I

Vocabulary/Answer key

Invertebrates I

The resources above cover the following skills:

Concepts of Life Science (SC1, SC2, SC3)

The student demonstrates an understanding of the structure, function, behavior, development, life cycles, and diversity of living organisms by describing the structure-function relationship