How Do Monobactams Work?

Monobactams are a subgroup of beta-lactam antibiotics, wherein the beta-lactam ring is alone and not fused to another ring (in contrast to other beta-lactams which have at least two rings).

Monobactams work only against aerobic gram-negative bacteria (Neisseria, Pseudomonas).

Monobactams work by inhibiting the peptidoglycan synthesis process (a process essential to maintain bacterial cell wall integrity); as a result, the bacteria lose the ability to resist and burst, leading to cell death.

Monobactam antibiotics are administered intravenously or intramuscularly.

Monobactams are used to treat the following:

• Pyelonephritis (severe kidney infection)
• Uncomplicated cystitis (inflammation of the urinary bladder)
• Urinary tract infection
• Lower respiratory tract infection
• Septicemia (serious bloodstream infection)
• Skin infections (postoperative wounds, ulcers, and burns)
• Peritonitis (inflammation of the membrane that lines the inner abdominal wall)
• Endometritis (inflammation of the lining of the uterus)
• As an inhalational antibiotic in children with cystic fibrosis (a condition that produces abnormally thick mucus leading to blockage of bronchi in the lungs)

Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Skin rash
• Abnormal taste in the mouth

Other rare side effects include:

• Phlebitis (inflammation of a vein)
• Tightness in chest/throat
• Fever
• Confusion
• Tinnitus (ringing sound in one or both the ears)

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Names of Monobactam drugs include:

• Azactam
• Aztreonam
• Aztreonam inhalation
• Cayston