Clavam

Clavam

Chemical structure of clavulanic acid

Clavam refers to a class of antibiotics that are combinations of a beta-lactam antibiotic with a beta-lactamase inhibitor. These combinations are used to overcome bacterial resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics, which is often mediated by the production of beta-lactamase enzymes by bacteria.

Composition

Clavam antibiotics typically consist of two main components:

• A beta-lactam antibiotic, such as amoxicillin or ticarcillin.
• A beta-lactamase inhibitor, such as clavulanic acid, sulbactam, or tazobactam.

The most common and well-known clavam is the combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid, often referred to as amoxicillin/clavulanic acid or by the brand name Augmentin.

Mechanism of Action

The beta-lactam antibiotic component of clavam works by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell lysis and death. However, many bacteria produce beta-lactamase enzymes that can hydrolyze the beta-lactam ring, rendering the antibiotic ineffective.

The beta-lactamase inhibitor component, such as clavulanic acid, works by binding to the beta-lactamase enzyme, thereby preventing it from breaking down the beta-lactam antibiotic. This allows the antibiotic to retain its activity against the bacteria.

Clinical Uses

Clavam antibiotics are used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including:

• Respiratory tract infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Sinusitis
• Otitis media

They are particularly useful in infections caused by beta-lactamase producing bacteria, which are resistant to standard beta-lactam antibiotics.

Side Effects

Common side effects of clavam antibiotics include:

• Gastrointestinal disturbances, such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
• Allergic reactions, including rash and anaphylaxis.
• Liver enzyme elevation and, rarely, hepatitis.

Related Pages

• Beta-lactam antibiotic
• Beta-lactamase
• Antibiotic resistance
• Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid