**Avibactam**
**Definition**
Avibactam is a non-β-lactam β-lactamase inhibitor used in combination with certain β-lactam antibiotics to enhance their efficacy against resistant bacterial infections. It works by inhibiting enzymes that degrade β-lactam antibiotics, thereby restoring their antibacterial activity.
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## Overview
Avibactam is a synthetic compound developed to combat antibiotic resistance, particularly in Gram-negative bacteria. It is not an antibiotic by itself but functions as a β-lactamase inhibitor, targeting a broad spectrum of β-lactamase enzymes including class A, class C, and some class D enzymes. These enzymes are produced by bacteria to inactivate β-lactam antibiotics such as penicillins and cephalosporins.
## Mechanism of Action
Avibactam binds covalently but reversibly to the active site of β-lactamase enzymes, preventing them from hydrolyzing β-lactam antibiotics. This inhibition protects the antibiotic molecule, allowing it to reach its target penicillin-binding proteins and exert its bactericidal effect.
## Clinical Use
Avibactam is primarily used in combination with ceftazidime, a third-generation cephalosporin, to treat complicated intra-abdominal infections, complicated urinary tract infections, and hospital-acquired pneumonia caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. The combination is particularly effective against bacteria producing extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) and some carbapenemases.
## Safety and Side Effects
The combination of avibactam and ceftazidime is generally well tolerated. Common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea, as well as potential allergic reactions. Its use should be guided by susceptibility testing and clinical judgment to minimize resistance development.
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**Meta Description:**
Avibactam is a β-lactamase inhibitor used with β-lactam antibiotics to treat resistant bacterial infections. It enhances antibiotic efficacy by inhibiting enzymes that degrade β-lactam drugs.