Question

Which of the following is a third generation cephalos-Porin?

• A. Cefotaxime
• B. Cefuroxime
• C. Cefazoline
• D. Cefeprime

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To determine which drug among the given options is a third-generation cephalosporin, we need to understand the classification of cephalosporins:

• First-generation cephalosporins: These include drugs like Cefazolin and are primarily effective against Gram-positive bacteria.
• Second-generation cephalosporins: Examples include Cefuroxime, which is slightly more effective against Gram-negative bacteria compared to the first generation.
• Third-generation cephalosporins: These have enhanced activity against Gram-negative bacteria and include drugs like Cefotaxime.
• Fourth-generation cephalosporins: Cefeprime is a member of this group and offers an extended spectrum of activity, including resistance to beta-lactamases.

Let's analyze each option:

1. Cefotaxime: This is a third-generation cephalosporin known for its broad-spectrum activity against a variety of Gram-negative bacteria. Therefore, this is the correct answer.
2. Cefuroxime: As a second-generation cephalosporin, it is effective against certain Gram-negative bacteria but is not in the third generation.
3. Cefazoline: This drug belongs to the first-generation cephalosporins and primarily targets Gram-positive bacteria.
4. Cefeprime: As a fourth-generation cephalosporin, it is not in the third generation like Cefotaxime.

Thus, among the options provided, Cefotaxime is the third-generation cephalosporin.