CEPHALOSPORIN Meaning and
Definition
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Cephalosporin is a type of antibiotic medication that belongs to the class of beta-lactam antibiotics. It is derived from a fungus known as Acremonium, specifically the Cephalosporium acremonium species. Cephalosporins exhibit a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity and are commonly prescribed to treat bacterial infections in various parts of the body.
Cephalosporins work against bacteria by interfering with the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. They do this by binding to specific proteins called penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) that are responsible for cross-linking the peptidoglycan layer of the cell wall. This binding ultimately leads to cell lysis and death of the bacteria.
Cephalosporins are categorized into different generations based on their molecular structure, antimicrobial spectrum, and pharmacokinetic properties. The higher the generation, the broader the spectrum of bacteria that the cephalosporin can target. Each generation of cephalosporins has different strengths, including improved resistance against certain bacterial strains, increased stability against some enzymes, and enhanced penetration into certain tissues.
Due to their effectiveness against a wide range of bacteria, cephalosporins are commonly used in the treatment of various bacterial infections, such as respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and certain types of meningitis. However, it is important to note that cephalosporins are ineffective against viral infections.
Like any other antibiotic, the use of cephalosporins may bring side effects, including diarrhea, nausea, allergic reactions, and in rare cases, severe adverse reactions. Proper usage and adherence to the prescribed dosages are crucial to ensure their effectiveness while minimizing the risk of developing antibiotic resistance.
Common Misspellings for CEPHALOSPORIN
Etymology of CEPHALOSPORIN
The word "cephalosporin" is derived from two Greek roots: "kephalē" meaning "head" and "σπορά" (spora) meaning "seed". The term was coined by Edward Abraham and his colleagues in the early 1960s when they first isolated and characterized the compound. The name was chosen because the fungus Cephalosporium acremonium, from which cephalosporin is derived, has a "head-like" appearance with long, branching structures resembling a sporulating fungus. Thus, the name "cephalosporin" reflects the structural features of the compound and its source organism.
Similar spelling words for CEPHALOSPORIN
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