Cephalosporin Classification Flashcards

Cephalosporin Classification

• Cephalosporins are classified into five generations based on their antimicrobial activity and chemical structure.

1st Generation Cephalosporins

• Characterized by the presence of FA or PHA/PHRA (with the exception of Cefaclor).
• Key drugs include:
  • Cefazolin: Often used for surgical prophylaxis.
  • Ceflothin: Known for its favorable activity against Gram-positive bacteria.
  • Cefaloridine: Primarily used in specific infections.
  • Cefadroxil: An oral option for skin and soft tissue infections.
  • Cephalexin: Widely used for respiratory and skin infections.
  • Cephradine: Offers broad coverage against Gram-positive organisms.

2nd Generation Cephalosporins

• Include agents that are effective against a broader spectrum of Gram-negative bacteria compared to the 1st generation.
• Key drugs:
  • Cefprozil: Often utilized for respiratory tract infections.
  • Cefoxitin: Known for its activity against anaerobic bacteria.
  • Cefaclor: Typically prescribed for mild infections.
  • Cefuroxime: Available in both oral and parenteral forms, effective for various infections.
  • Cefotetan: Primarily used in surgical prophylaxis due to its anaerobic coverage.

3rd Generation Cephalosporins

• Identified by drug names that end with IME, ONE, or TEN (excluding Cefuroxime).
• Key drugs:
  • Ceftazidime: Notable for its efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
  • Cefotaxime: Commonly used for meningitis and septicemia.
  • Ceftriaxone: Renowned for its long half-life and once-daily dosing, effective against a wide range of infections.

4th Generation Cephalosporins

• Distinguished by the presence of "PI" in their name.
• Key drug:
  • Cefepime: Offers enhanced activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including resistant strains.

5th Generation Cephalosporins

• Identified by the presence of "ROL" in their name.
• Key drugs:
  • Ceftaroline: Effective against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
  • Ceftobiprole: Demonstrates activity against a variety of pathogens, including MRSA.

Test your knowledge on the classification of cephalosporins with this set of flashcards. Each card presents a generation of cephalosporin and lists its representatives. Perfect for pharmacology students and professionals alike.