How Do First-generation Cephalosporins Work?

Cephalosporins are broad-spectrum antibiotics used to manage a wide range of bacterial infections. They are derived from the mold Acremonium (previously called Cephalosporium). Cephalosporins are grouped into five generations based on their spectrum of coverage against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. They are administered intravenously or orally depending on the infection.

First-generation cephalosporins act on all gram-positive bacteria such as staphylococci and streptococci and show little activity against gram-negative bacteria.

First-generation cephalosporins inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis and have the same mode of action as other beta-lactam antibiotics (such as penicillins). They disrupt the synthesis of the peptidoglycan layer forming the bacterial cell wall. The peptidoglycan layer is important for cell wall structural integrity.

• First-generation cephalosporins are used to treat:
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Pneumonia
• Urinary tract infection
• Kidney infection
• Skin and soft tissue infections such as cellulitis and abscess
• Ear infection (Otitis media)
• Bone infection
• Blood infection
• Biliary tract infection
• Joint infection
• Heart infection (Endocarditis)

Side-effects associated with first-generation cephalosporins include:

• Swelling of tongue and throat
• Breathing difficulties
• Decrease in blood pressure
• Yeast infection or oral thrush
• Dizziness
• Watery diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Hypersensitivity reaction (this side effect is rare but may be serious)

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Drug names include:

• Ancef
• Cefadroxil
• Cefazolin
• Cephalexin
• Duricef
• Keflex
• Kefzol
• Panixine Disperdosev
• Ultracef