One class of beta-lactam antibiotics that is frequently used to treat bacterial infections is cephalosporin antibiotics. They come from the fungus Acremonium and were initially identified in the 1940s. While cephalosporins and penicillin share structural and functional similarities, cephalosporins exhibit a wider range of antibacterial activity. Cephalosporins are mostly composed of a dihydrothiazine ring bonded to a beta-lactam ring. Their antibacterial action is attributed to this structure. Cephalosporins work by preventing the bacterial cell wall from being synthesized, which causes cell lysis and death. Based on their resistance to beta-lactamases and range of activity, cephalosporins are categorized into different generations. Medications like cefazolin and cephalexin, which work well against gram-positive bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus, are part of the first generation. The antibiotics' effectiveness against gram-negative bacteria increases as we go to higher generations. The activity of second-generation cephalosporins, such cefuroxime and cefoxitin, against gram-negative bacteria is increased. Ceftriaxone and cefotaxime, two third-generation cephalosporins that are even more potent against gram-negative bacteria, are frequently used for severe infections such meningitis and pneumonia. Like cefepime, fourth-generation cephalosporins offer a wider range of activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Moreover, they are more stable against beta-lactamases. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the broader spectrum of activities of fifth-generation cephalosporins, like ceftaroline. Although cephalosporins are usually well tolerated, they might have adverse effects such as gastrointestinal problems and allergic responses, just like other antibiotics. It is advisable to use caution when providing cephalosporins to people who have a documented penicillin allergy due to the possibility of cross-reactivity with penicillin allergies. In conclusion, a broad range of activity against a variety of bacteria characterizes the cephalosporin class of beta-lactam antibiotics. Depending on the kind and severity of the infection, their various generations give physicians more freedom in selecting the best antibiotic.
