Antibiotics that Interfere with Bacterial Cell Wall Synthesis

Antibiotics that Interfere with Bacterial Cell Wall Synthesis
Antibiotics that interfere with bacterial cell wall synthesis belong to different classes and act by that same mechanism to treat bacterial infection. We will take an example of a drug that belongs to the class of beta-lactams: cloxacillin. It induces, like other beta-lactams, a bactericidal action by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, which will lead to bacterial autolysis (Pandey & Cascella, 2019). It acts on bacteria from the streptococci and staphylococci classes. They are responsible for multiple infections of the ENT and cardio-respiratory tracts, soft tissues, and osteomyelitis for staphylococci.
Like any other drug, taking cloxacillin requires monitoring its tolerance and side effects. It is advisable to take it on an empty stomach. Its side effects include digestive disturbances like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and gastric discomfort. Minor or major allergic skin reactions can also occur (Pandey & Cascella, 2019). Other rare side effects such as arthralgia, kidney issues, severe fatigue, and others may occur. It is necessary to explain to any patient to whom this medication is prescribed to report any new embarrassing sensation that appears during its intake so as not to delay anticipating a severe side effect.
Drug interactions may reduce or enhance the expected therapeutic effect of the drug. Several drugs interact through their mechanism of action, which is why a prescriber inquires about current products before any prescription. This is also the case of cloxacillin, which is known to interact with some drugs such as fusidic acid, cyclins,...