top of page
Search

β-Lactamase Inhibitors

BP-S-6-Medicinal Chemistry III
1 min read

Chemical Structure / Formula of β-Lactamase Inhibitors

  • Examples: Clavulanic acid (C8H9NO5), Sulbactam (C8H11NO5S), Tazobactam (C10H12N4O5S).

  • Contain a β-lactam ring but lack strong antibacterial activity themselves.



Chemical Structure of Clavulanic acid
Clavulanic acid

Mechanism of Action

  • Irreversibly bind to bacterial β-lactamases, preventing them from breaking down β-lactam antibiotics.

  • Given in combination with penicillins or cephalosporins (e.g., Amoxicillin-Clavulanate).

Uses

  • Used with penicillins or cephalosporins to treat resistant infections (Pseudomonas, Enterobacteriaceae).

  • Common combinations:

  • Amoxicillin + Clavulanic acid (Augmentin)

  • Piperacillin + Tazobactam (Zosyn)

Side Effects

  • Mostly due to the antibiotic they are combined with.

  • Common: GI upset, diarrhea.

  • Serious: Hypersensitivity reactions.


Related Posts

See All

β-Lactam Antibiotics

Historical Background of β-Lactam Antibiotics Discovered in 1928 by Alexander Fleming  (Penicillin). First widely used antibiotic class....

bottom of page