Antibiotics - Cephalosporins Made Simple

Brief review of cephalosporin antibiotics.

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[brade]

Nice mention of possible induced resistance when using 3rd gens for enterobacter.  This inducible multi-drug resistance risk is present for all betalactams (excluding carbapenems and cefepime in most cases). I believe its present for not only enterobacter, but all the S.P.I.C.E. organisms through AmpC.  SPICE (Serratia spp, Providencia, Indole positive protea, Citrobacter spp., Enterobacter cloacae). In my experience, carbapenems seem to be favored regardless of the initial susceptibilities for these organisms.  Many institutions have low rates of inducible ESBL with cefepime as well.  Another big take home, if you see enterococcus, avoid cephalosporins all together.

[monikabarbarapotocki]

Thanks. Will probably be using this stuff for boards!

[MintSauceMonkey]

Thanks this really helped sum things up! Just wish there was some sort if mnemonic to remember which drug is in which class :(

[Jessica-jmtt]

You grouped cefotetan and cefoxitin under 2nd Gen but aren't they cephamycins ?not cephalosporins..