HSCI 3020 Antimicrobial Drugs

Flashcards based on the therapeutic and pharmacological classes of antimicrobial drugs discussed in HSCI 3020.

Beta-lactams

A class of antibiotics that includes penicillins and cephalosporins, characterized by the presence of a beta-lactam ring.

Penicillins

A group of antibiotics derived from penicillium fungi, effective against various bacterial infections.

Cephalosporins

A class of antibiotics that are similar to penicillins and are used to treat a wide range of infections; names typically end with 'cef' or 'ceph'.

Beta-lactamase inhibitors

Compounds that inhibit the action of beta-lactamase enzymes, protecting beta-lactam antibiotics from degradation.

Clavulanic acid

A beta-lactamase inhibitor often used in combination with penicillins.

Extended-spectrum penicillins

Penicillins that are effective against a wider range of bacteria than traditional penicillins; examples include amoxicillin and ampicillin.

Penicillinase-Resistant Antibiotics

Antibiotics designed to resist the effects of penicillinase, an enzyme that breaks down penicillin.

Aminoglycosides

A class of antibiotics that includes gentamicin, used primarily to treat serious bacterial infections.

Fluoroquinolones

A group of broad-spectrum antibiotics, including ciprofloxacin, known for targeting bacterial DNA synthesis.

Sulfonamides

A group of synthetic antibiotics that inhibit bacterial growth by interfering with folic acid synthesis; trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) is a common combination.

Lipoglycopeptides

A newer class of antibiotics that includes vancomycin, effective primarily against Gram-positive bacteria.

Tetracycline

A class of antibiotics that are broadly effective against bacteria, often used to treat infections due to their protein-synthesis inhibition.

Lincosamides

Antibiotics such as clindamycin that inhibit bacterial protein synthesis;

Macrolides

A class of antibiotics including erythromycin, effective against a variety of bacteria.

Monobactams

A class of beta-lactam antibiotics characterized by a monocyclic beta-lactam structure; aztreonam is a primary example.

Antivirals

Medications that treat viral infections by inhibiting the development of the infective virus.

Oseltamivir

An antiviral drug commonly used to treat influenza.

Antifungals

Medications used to treat fungal infections; examples include fluconazole and clotrimazole.

Anti-protozoans

Medications used to treat infections caused by protozoa; metronidazole and hydroxychloroquine are examples.

Antihelminics

Medications used to treat infections caused by parasitic worms; ivermectin is a common antihelminic drug.