Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Aminopenicillins are a class of broad-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotics derived from penicillin. They are effective against both Gram-positive and some Gram-negative bacteria.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Aminopenicillins include drugs such as ampicillin and amoxicillin.
They work by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to cell lysis and death.
Aminopenicillins are often used to treat respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and bacterial meningitis.
They are susceptible to degradation by beta-lactamase enzymes produced by resistant bacteria.
Combining aminopenicillins with beta-lactamase inhibitors like clavulanic acid can enhance their effectiveness.
A class of antibiotics that includes penicillins, cephalosporins, monobactams, and carbapenems.
Beta-Lactamase Inhibitors: Compounds that inhibit beta-lactamase enzymes produced by bacteria to overcome antibiotic resistance.
Gram-Positive Bacteria: Bacteria that have a thick peptidoglycan layer in their cell walls and retain the crystal violet stain in the Gram staining procedure.