Definition

Noun: A cephalosporin is any of a group of broad-spectrum antibiotic compounds originally derived from fungi of the genus Acremonium (formerly Cephalosporium). These antibiotics are structurally and functionally related to penicillin but are often effective against a wider range of bacteria and are more resistant to enzymes (beta-lactamases) that can deactivate penicillin.

Usage

Cephalosporins are used medically to treat various bacterial infections. * The doctor prescribed a cephalosporin for the patient's severe sinus infection. * Due to her penicillin allergy, the surgeon chose a cephalosporin for preoperative prophylaxis. * Resistance to older cephalosporins is a growing concern in hospitals.

Advanced Usage

• Generations: Cephalosporins are commonly classified into "generations" (first, second, third, fourth, fifth) based on their spectrum of antibacterial activity and their resistance to beta-lactamases. Later generations typically have broader coverage against Gram-negative bacteria.
  • Ceftriaxone, a third-generation cephalosporin, is often used to treat meningitis.
• Beta-lactam antibiotic: This is the broader drug class to which cephalosporins belong, named for their characteristic beta-lactam ring structure, which is essential for their antibacterial activity.

Variants and Related Words

• Cephalosporinase (noun): A type of beta-lactamase enzyme produced by some bacteria that specifically hydrolyzes and inactivates cephalosporin antibiotics.

Synonyms

• Beta-lactam antibiotic (This is the broader class; not all beta-lactams are cephalosporins, but all cephalosporins are beta-lactams.)

Related Terms (Not Synonyms)

• Penicillin: A related but distinct class of beta-lactam antibiotics from which cephalosporins were developed.
• Antibiotic: The general term for a substance that inhibits or destroys microorganisms, especially bacteria.
• Mefoxin: A former trade name for the specific cephalosporin .

Noun

1. one of several broad spectrum antibiotic substances obtained from fungi and related to penicillin (trade names Mefoxin); addition of side chains has produced semisynthetic antibiotics with greater antibacterial activity