cephalosporin

cephalosporin , any of a group of more than 20 antibiotics derived from species of fungi of the genus Cephalosporium and closely related chemically to penicillin . Cephalosporins, e.g., cefaclor (Ceclor), act against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria (see Gram's stain ) by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. They are widely used to treat gonorrhea, meningitis, and staphylococcal and streptococcal infections in patients who cannot use penicillin. Overuse of cephalosporins has led to increased bacterial resistance to the drugs (see drug resistance .)

cephalosporin Class of antibiotic drugs derived from fungi of the genus Cephalosporium. Similar to penicillin, they are effective against a wide spectrum of bacteria, including some which have become resistant to penicillin.

cephalosporin (sef-ă-loh-spo-rin) n. any one of a group of semisynthetic antibiotics, derived from the mould Cephalosporium, which are effective against a wide range of microorganisms and are therefore used to treat a variety of infections. The older (first-generation) cephalosporins include cefadroxil and cefalexin; more recent (second-generation) drugs include cefaclor and cefuroxime; ceftazidime is a third-generation cephalosporin. Cross-sensitivity with penicillin may occur and the principal side-effects are allergic reactions and irritation of the digestive tract.