Set 5: Specific Antibacterial Drug Classes

What is a major advantage of Cephalosporins for patients with specific allergies?

• has a structure similar to penicillin and can often be used by patients who are allergic to penicillin

• can be used to treat antibiotic resistant bacteria

• isolated from a fungus

What is the mechanism of Tetracycline, and is it cidal or static?

• It binds to the 30S subunit of the ribosome to block protein elongation;

• it is bacteriostatic

Example: Tetracyline

How do fluoroquinolones work and what is a significant FDA-restricted side effect?

• inhibit nucleic acid synthesis (DNA/RNA

• They inhibit bacterial topoisomerases to disrupt DNA replication;

• They can cause damage to tendons and nerves} FDA restricts usage

What is the mechanism of Rifampin and what harmless side effect might patients experience? And what can it be used to treat?

mechanism: It blocks transcription by inactivating RNA polymerase

side effects: it can cause urine and sweat to turn a red color.

—> treats: TB, leprosy, other Mycobacterium infections, N. meningitis, H. influenzae