Use of Beta-Lactamase Inhibitors

A primary problem in using penicillins, cephalosporins, and other beta-lactam antibiotics is that certain bacteria produce enzymes known as beta-lactamases.26,70 These beta-lactamase enzymes bind to the beta-lactam drug and destroy it before it can exert an antibacterial 

Some common combinations of penicillins and specific beta-lactamase inhibitors are listed in Table 33-2. Administration of these drug combinations may produce side effects that are caused primarily by the penicillin component that is, penicillin-related side effects such as headache, gastrointestinal problems, and allergic reactions. Nonetheless, combining a beta-lactamase inhibitor with a penicillin can be an effective way of treating bacterial infections that might otherwise be resistant to traditional antibacterial therapy. 

Drugs That Inhibit Bacterial Protein Synthesis 

Drugs that exert their primary antibacterial effects by inhibiting protein synthesis are listed in Table 33-3 and discussed below. 

Aminoglycosides have a very broad spectrum of antibacterial activity and are effective against many aerobic 

---