The in Vitro Protection of Penicillin from Inactivation by Penicillinase

Beta-lactamase inhibitor combinations

The beta-lactamase inhibitor combinations present a novel approach to the problem of beta-lactamase-induced resistance to antibiotics. These agents are derived from the generally safe beta-lactam class of antibiotics. They are all principally excreted through the kidneys and require dosage adjustment in the face of significant renal insufficiency. They show significantly increased activity against methicillin-sensitive S. aureus, H. influenzae, B. catarrhalis, and B. fragilis. The activity against Enterococcus, Pseudomonas, and most gram-negative bacilli, however, remains limited to that of the respective antibiotic component. Although shown to be clinically useful in a variety of clinical situations, they appear to be most useful for skin and soft tissue infections and lower respiratory tract infections as well as intra-abdominal and gynecologic infections caused by susceptible pathogens.

A review of the microbiology of amoxycillin/clavulanic acid over the 15 year period 1978-1993

A review of the published literature over the period 1978-1993 was undertaken to assess any changes in the prevalence of beta-lactamase-producing bacterial pathogens and also any changes in the susceptibility in these pathogens to amoxycillin/clavulanate. The review has involved the examination of over 1500 publications. The review shows that in general there has been an increase in the frequency of beta-lactamase-producing pathogens resistant to ampicillin and amoxycillin but there is no evidence for any significant increase in resistance to amoxycillin/clavulanate over the period of the review.

The in Vitro Protection of Penicillin from Inactivation by Penicillinase

(1) A combination of penicillin and immune plasma protein has been obtained which possesses bacteriostatic activity. (2) The presence of the penicillinase immune plasma protein in this mixture protects penicillin in vitro from destruction by penicillinase.