Effect
Beta-lactam antibiotics have bacteriostatic to bactericidal properties. They inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). PBPs include transpeptidases, which are responsible for cross-linking peptidoglycan chains during cell wall synthesis. Some beta-lactams can be degraded and thus inactivated by the bacterial enzyme beta-lactamase
Indications
The spectrum of beta-lactam antibiotics ranges from Gram-positive to Gram-negative pathogens, depending on the compound.
Structure
Basic structure of beta-lactam antibiotics with the β-lactam ring (lactams are cyclic amides):
Active Ingredients
See under the following drug groups:
- Penicillins
- Cephalosporins
- Carbapenems
- Monobactams
Author
Conflicts of interest: none / independent. The author has no relationship with the manufacturers and is not involved in the sale of the products mentioned.
