What Bacteria are Killed by Ceftriaxone?
Ceftriaxone effectively kills a wide range of bacteria. Its effectiveness stems from its ability to inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to cell death.
Ceftriaxone targets various types of bacteria, including:
- Gram-positive aerobic bacteria: These bacteria possess a thick peptidoglycan layer in their cell wall.
- Gram-negative aerobic bacteria: These bacteria have a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane.
- Anaerobic bacteria: These bacteria can survive and grow without oxygen.
While ceftriaxone is generally effective against many bacteria, some strains may have developed resistance. The specific bacteria killed will depend on the susceptibility of the bacteria to the antibiotic. Examples of bacteria frequently targeted by Ceftriaxone include Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. The activity of ceftriaxone is often greater than that of earlier generations of cephalosporins, especially against Gram-negative bacteria. Some strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common cause of hospital-acquired infections, are also susceptible.
Mechanism of Action
Ceftriaxone, a cephalosporin antibiotic, works by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), specifically carboxypeptidases, in the bacterial cell wall. This inhibition of mucopeptide synthesis prevents the bacteria from building a functional cell wall, resulting in cell lysis and death.
Important Note:
The effectiveness of ceftriaxone varies depending on the specific bacterial strain and its resistance profile. Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern, and the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics like ceftriaxone should be guided by culture and sensitivity testing when possible.
