Which class of antibiotics does cefepime belong to?

Cefepime is classified as a cephalosporin antibiotic, specifically a fourth-generation cephalosporin. This classification is important because cephalosporins are a broad group of β-lactam antibiotics that are structurally and functionally similar to penicillins but typically exhibit broader spectrum of activity against gram-negative bacteria compared to earlier generations.

Cefepime is known for its effectiveness against a range of bacteria, including those that are resistant to other antibiotics. It is commonly used to treat serious infections due to its ability to penetrate bacterial cell walls effectively and its stability against certain beta-lactamases. Understanding the class to which cefepime belongs helps clinicians make informed decisions about its usage in treating infections where resistance to other types of antibiotics might be a concern.