Beta-lactam antibiotics: newer formulations and newer agents.
beta-Lactam antibiotics share a common structure and mechanism of action, although they differ in their spectrum of antimicrobial activity and utility in treating different infections. The current classes include the penicillins, the penicillinase-resistant penicillins, the extended- spectrum penicillins, the cephalosporins, the carbapenems, and the monobactams. This article discusses some of the newest beta-lactams available for use in the United States: ertapenem, cefditoren, and cefepime. A new formulation of amoxicillin-clavulanate, which contains higher doses of amoxicillin, is also discussed.
Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
Stanley I
SI
Martin
Kenneth M
KM
Kaye
D019980:Amoxicillin-Potassium Clavulanate Combination / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000077723:Cefepime; D002511:Cephalosporins / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000077727:Ertapenem; D006801:Humans; D007769:Lactams / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014481:United States; D047090:beta-Lactams / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D002511:Cephalosporins; D007769:Lactams; D047090:beta-Lactams; D019980:Amoxicillin-Potassium Clavulanate Combination; D000077723:Cefepime; C073460:cefditoren; D000077727:Ertapenem