Cefathiamidine is a broad-spectrum first-generation cephalosporin β-lactam antibiotic. It is used for the treatment of respiratory and urinary tract infections, pneumonia, sepsis, and meningitis.
| Mechanism of Action | Like β-lactams, cephalosporins interfere with PBP (penicillin binding protein) activity involved in the final phase of peptidoglycan synthesis. PBP’s are enzymes which catalyze a pentaglycine crosslink between alanine and lysine residues providing additional strength to the cell wall. Without a pentaglycine crosslink, the integrity of the cell wall is severely compromised and ultimately leads to cell lysis and death. Resistance to cephalosporins is commonly due to cells containing plasmid encoded β-lactamases. |
| Microbiology Applications | Cefathiamidine has a similar antibacterial spectrum as Cefalotin. |
| Molecular Formula | C19H28N4O6S2 |
| References | Tze-Ying T et al (1979) Clinical and laboratory studies of a new cephalosporin derivative – cefathiamidine. Chin. Med. J. 92(1): 26-36 PMID 105842 |
