ANTIBIOTICS

Question 1

B lactam abx

Answer 1

• penicillins
• cephalosporins
• carbapenems

All share B lactam ring structure

Question 2

Side effects and hypersensitivity of B lactams

Answer 2

• Hypersensitivity = rash, itching, fever
• Diarrhoea (esp penicillins)
• Anaphylaxis

If pt has hypersensitivity with penicillin use - use other B lactams cautiously/avoid

Question 3

OCP and antibiotics

Answer 3

Cephalosporins (cefotaxime, cefuroxime)

- Reduce efficacy of OCP > ensure females are using another type of contraception whilst on this abx

Question 4

Patient advice RE abx

Answer 4

Ensure full dose is taken even if they start to feel better after a few days

Question 5

Features of carbapenems

Answer 5

B lactam abx

Neurotoxic - don’t give if epilepsy

Question 6

Tetracyclines - indications, SEs and caution/contraindications

Answer 6

• Used for acne, chlamydia
• GI SEs
• Avoid in kids <12/pregnancy - interferes with development

Question 7

Monitoring aminoglycosides

Answer 7

Gentamicin = ototoxic + nephrotoxic

• Peak and trough levels
• High peak = reduce dose; high trough = increase dose interval
• Check U/Es and renal function

Question 8

Aminoglycoside patient information

Answer 8

report any changes in hearing

- don’t take any other nephrotoxic (ACEis/NSAIDs) or ototoxic drugs (loop diuretics)

Question 9

Macrolides and taking other drugs

Answer 9

Enzyme inhibitor - enhances effect of

• Statins
• theophylline
• warfarin

Question 10

Metronidazole

Answer 10

avoid alcohol whilst taking and for 48h after stopping

Question 11

SEs and monitoring of macrolides

Answer 11

QT prolongation - monitor using ECG

Question 12

Quinolones ADRs

Answer 12

associated with C.diff - GI disturbances

• depression, anxiety
• tendon damage

Question 13

Drugs causing C. diff

Answer 13

broad spec abx

• Clindamycin (macrolides)
• Ciprofloxacin
• Penicillins
• Co-amoxiclav