Martin SI & Kaye KM
Beta-lactam antibiotics: newer formulations and newer agents.>
Infect Dis Clin North Am, 18(3): 603-619, 2004
ISSN: 0891-5520 Infectious Disease Clinics of North America (PubMed)
Abstract
beta-Lactam antibiotics share a common structure and mechanism of action, although they differ in their spectrum of antimicrobial activity and utility in treating different infections. The current classes include the penicillins, the penicillinase-resistant penicillins, the extended- spectrum penicillins, the cephalosporins, the carbapenems, and the monobactams. This article discusses some of the newest beta-lactams available for use in the United States: ertapenem, cefditoren, and cefepime. A new formulation of amoxicillin-clavulanate, which contains higher doses of amoxicillin, is also discussed.