Nafcillin is a beta-lactamase-resistant drug of the penicillin class.
| Mechanism of Action | β-lactams 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 β-lactams is commonly due to cells containing plasmid encoded β-lactamases. |
| Spectrum | Nafcillin is targets primarily gram-positive bacteria including Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species. |
| Molecular Formula | C21H21N2O5SNa•H2O |
| References | Guzmán, Flavio, MD. "Beta Lactams Antibiotics (penicillins and Cephalosporins) Mechanism of Action.” Medical Pharmacology. Pharmacology Corner, 29 Nov. 2008. Web. 21 Aug. 2012. |
