Paper II
2021 May (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)

Question

Beta-Lactamase inhibitors

Q33 marksShort Notes

Answer

Examples: Clavulanic acid, Sulbactam, Tazobactam

Mechanism of action

  • Themselves have weak/no antibacterial activity but irreversibly inhibit bacterial beta-lactamase enzymes, which would otherwise hydrolyse and inactivate the beta-lactam ring of penicillins/cephalosporins

Uses

  • Combined with beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g., Amoxicillin-clavulanate, Piperacillin-tazobactam) to extend their spectrum to beta-lactamase-producing resistant organisms

Adverse effects

  • Generally reflect the combined antibiotic’s profile
  • Clavulanic acid: increased incidence of diarrhoea/GI upset when combined with amoxicillin
  • Rare hepatotoxicity (with clavulanic acid combinations)

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