Anti-infectives (Beta-lactams - Cephalosporins)

Question 1

Examples of drug (Beta-lactams - Cephalosporins)

Answer 1

• Ceftriaxone

- Cephalexin

Question 2

Mechanism of action (Beta-lactams - Cephalosporins)

Answer 2

• Attaches to penicillin-binding-proteins on forming bacterial cell walls.
• This inhibits the transpeptidase enzyme which cross-links the bacterial cell wall.
• Failure to cross-link induces bacterial cell autolysis.
• Less susceptible to beta-lactamases than penicillins.
• Provides both gram-positive and gram-negative cover.

Question 3

Indications (Beta-lactams - Cephalosporins)

Answer 3

• Serious infection (septicaemia, pneumonia, meningitis)

Question 4

Side effects (Beta-lactams - Cephalosporins)

Answer 4

• Hypersensitivity reactions (Low cross-reactivity in patients with true penicillin allergy – can be as low as 3-7%)
• Antibiotic-associated C.Difficile diarrhoea
• Liver function impairment

Question 5

Important pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (Beta-lactams - Cephalosporins)

Answer 5

• Renal excretion.

- Longer half-life, needs to be given once daily.

Question 6

Patient information (Beta-lactams - Cephalosporins)

Answer 6

• Diarrhoea is a common side effect.

- Report any incidence of a rash after use – risk of hypersensitivity reactions.