Cephalosporins Flashcards
Give some examples of first generation cephalosporins.
Cefalexin, cefradine, cefadroxil.
Give some examples of second generation cephalosporins.
Cefaclor, cefuroxime.
Give some examples of third generation cephalosporins.
Cefixime, ceftriaxone.
Give some examples of fifth generation cephalosporins.
Ceftaroline fosamil.
What is the mode of action of the cephalosporins?
They prevent cell wall synthesis by binding to enzymes called penicillin binding proteins.
Against which organisms do cephalosporins have bactericidal activity?
Both gram-positive and gram-negative.
Give some indications for which cephalosporins may be used?
Pneumonia, meningitis, gonorrhoea, UTIs.
Give some of the side effects associated with cephalosporin use.
Antibiotic-associated colitis.
With which cephalosporins is antibiotic-associated colitis more common?
Second and third generation.
In which patients would the use of cephalosporins be associated?
Patients with hypersensitivity, including those with a penicillin hypersensitivity.
What percentage of penicillin-sensitive patients will also be allergic to cephalosporins?
0.5-6%.
