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Cephalosporins

INTRODUCTION

Beta-lactam antibiotics are among the most commonly prescribed drugs, grouped together based upon a shared structural feature, the beta-lactam ring. Cephalosporins cover a broad range of organisms, are generally well-tolerated, and easy to administer; thus, these agents are frequently used beta-lactam drugs.

The classification, spectrum of activity and pharmacology of the cephalosporins will be reviewed here. The mechanisms of action and resistance and major adverse reactions of the beta-lactam antibiotics, and the penicillins and novel beta-lactam drugs that constitute the other beta-lactams are discussed separately. (See "Overview of the beta-lactam antibiotics", and see appropriate topic reviews).

CLASSIFICATION OF CEPHALOSPORINS

Cephalosporins include the closely related cephamycin compounds. The parenteral agents are commonly classified into the following categories:

  • First generation (cefazolin)
  • Second generation

         A. Subgroup with activity against Haemophilus influenzae (cefuroxime)
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