Other Cell Wall Synthesis Inhibitors

Question 1

What is the mode of action for Monobactams?

Answer 1

Bactericidal - Blocks the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall by inhibiting Penicillin Binding Protein 3 (PBP3)

Question 2

What is the spectrum and administration route for Aztreonam?

Answer 2

Aerobic Gram-negative rods, administered intravenously

Question 3

Why can’t Carbapenems be used for MRSA infections?

Answer 3

They are ineffective against MRSA due to resistance

Question 4

What is the bacterial coverage for Imipenem + Cilastatin (Primaxin)?

Answer 4

Wide Gram-positive and Gram-negative coverage, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and some anaerobes, but not Enterococcus or MRSA

Question 5

What is Meropenem’s coverage and what infections is it used for?

Answer 5

Broad coverage for Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, used for sepsis

Question 6

Which serious adverse effect is associated with Vancomycin use?

Answer 6

‘Red man syndrome’, ototoxicity, nephrotoxicity

Question 7

What are the clinical uses for Vancomycin?

Answer 7

Serious Gram-positive infections like sepsis, infections caused by Clostridioides difficile, not the first line for MRSA anymore

Question 8

What is the mechanism of action for Glycopeptides like Vancomycin?

Answer 8

Bactericidal - Binds to the ends of peptidoglycan to weaken and break bonds, inhibiting cell wall synthesis

Question 9

How does Isoniazid work against Mycobacterium tuberculosis?

Answer 9

Bacteriostatic for tuberculosis - Inhibits mycolic acid synthesis, interfering with cell wall synthesis

Question 10

What are the side effects and warnings associated with Isoniazid?

Answer 10

Peripheral neuropathy, hepatotoxicity, severe adverse warning for black box warning and fatal hepatitis