Answer to Question #150678 in Chemistry for rema

Question

Explain the use clavulanic acid as antibacterial agent. Mention its advantages and
disadvantages.

Answer 1

Clavulanic acid is a beta-lactam antibiotic that serves as a β-lactamase inhibitor and suppresses the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. Clavulanic acid is used in a combination with other penicillin-like antibiotics and can overcome antibiotic resistance in bacteria strains that produce beta-lactamase. For example, the combination of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium is used for the treatment of pyelonephritis. However, the use of this drug is associated with allergy, acute hepatitis, and cholestatic jaundice due to hepatic toxicity.