A sizable collection of antibiotics, derived from the fungus Cephalosporium Acremonium, encompass the group known as cephalosporins. These medications exhibit effectiveness against a broad spectrum of infections. Cephalosporins are commonly employed for the treatment of ear, throat, and respiratory tract infections, as well as conditions like urinary tract infections and the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhea, particularly when the responsible bacteria demonstrate resistance to other classes of antibiotics.
Cephalosporin medications disrupt the formation of bacterial cell walls and hinder the synthesis of proteins within bacterial cells, ultimately leading to the demise of the bacteria. Nonetheless, certain strains of bacteria possess an enzyme known as beta-lactamase, which serves as a catalyst and has the ability to deactivate certain older cephalosporin drugs. Fortunately, newer cephalosporins are unaffected by this enzyme.
In some cases, the administration of cephalosporin drugs can give rise to allergic reactions, including symptoms like rash, itching, and fever. Although uncommon, anaphylactic shock, an extremely severe allergic reaction, may occur. Additional side effects encompass diarrhea and blood-related disorders.