Which class of antibiotics is primarily effective against Gram-positive infections?

Enhance your pharmacology knowledge for the assessment. Prepare with quizzes featuring flashcards and multiple-choice questions with explanations and hints.

The correct response is based on the effectiveness of the antibiotic class against Gram-positive bacteria. Penicillins are a subclass of beta-lactam antibiotics that target the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, a mechanism that is particularly effective against Gram-positive organisms. These bacteria typically have a thick peptidoglycan layer in their cell walls, making them vulnerable to the action of Penicillins, which disrupt this structure.

While macrolides and tetracyclines can also be effective against certain Gram-positive infections, their spectrum of activity is broader, including some Gram-negative bacteria, which may make them less specific for Gram-positive infections. Aminoglycosides, on the other hand, are primarily effective against Gram-negative bacteria and have limited activity against Gram-positives, often requiring synergistic use with other antibiotics for efficacy against these types.

Thus, among the options provided, Penicillins hold a prominent role in treating infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria due to their specific mode of action targeting the cell wall, making them the most appropriate choice in this context.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy