What is Avibactam?
Avibactam is a beta-lactamase inhibitor, used in combination with antibiotics such as ceftazidime and sulbactam. It works by inhibiting the activity of certain bacterial enzymes (beta-lactamases) that can render some antibiotics ineffective. By blocking these enzymes, Avibactam helps to restore the effectiveness of combination antibiotics against infections caused by bacteria resistant to traditional treatments.
What is Avibactam used for?
Avibactam is a beta-lactamase inhibitor, which is a type of antibiotic. It works by inhibiting the activity of beta-lactamases, enzymes that certain bacteria produce to make antibiotics such as penicillins and cephalosporins ineffective.
Avibactam was developed to overcome resistance to these traditional antibiotics. By blocking the action of beta-lactamases, avibactam enables existing antibiotics like ceftaroline (a fourth-generation cephalosporin) to retain their effectiveness against resistant bacteria. This approach is often referred to as a “combination therapy,” where avibactam is paired with another antibiotic to treat infections caused by bacteria that are resistant to the antibiotic alone.
Avibactam was approved by regulatory authorities for use in combination with ceftaroline to treat acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI) caused by certain Gram-positive bacteria. The mechanism of action of avibactam involves binding to and inhibiting beta-lactamases, allowing ceftaroline to bind to its target on the bacterial cell wall and ultimately kill the bacterium. This novel approach represents a significant advancement in antimicrobial therapy for treating infections resistant to traditional antibiotics.
Avibactam’s interaction with other enzymes or substances within the body has been evaluated as part of its development process. Studies have shown that avibactam is generally well-tolerated, although like all medications, it may cause certain side effects or interact with other drugs in some individuals. However, the specifics regarding such interactions and side effects are detailed under clinical trials for avibactam’s use.
Avibactam represents a novel strategy to counter antibiotic resistance by reinvigorating existing antibiotics’ effectiveness.
Avibactam side effects
- Increased risk of Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infections
- Increased susceptibility to secondary bacterial infections
- Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis
- Decreased renal function in patients with pre-existing kidney disease
- Increased liver enzymes in some patients
- Abnormal heart rate or rhythm in rare cases
- Diarrhea and abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache and dizziness
- Allergic reactions, including rash and itching
- Taste alterations
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