What it means
Beta-lactam antibiotics grouped in "generations". Examples are cephalexin and cefazolinsef-AY-zoh-linA first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic given by injection into a vein or muscle.Full entry (first generation; cefazolin is the usual antibiotic given before surgery), cefuroxime, ceftriaxonesef-try-AK-sohnA third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic given by injection into a vein or muscle.Full entry and cefepime. Most names start with "cef" or "ceph". Side effects include diarrhea, rash and, rarely, C. difficilesee dif-uh-SEELClostridioides difficile, a spore-forming bacterium that can infect the colon (the large intestine).Full entry infection. A small number of people allergic to penicillin also react to cephalosporins.
For the nurse
Ask about drug allergies, especially to penicillin, before the first dose, and watch for an allergic reaction. Report severe or bloody diarrhea.
At a glance
| Drug class | cephalosporin antibiotic |
|---|---|
| Also written | cephalosporins |
Related terms
antibiotic
A drug that kills bacteria or stops them from growing.
ceftriaxone
A third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic given by injection into a vein or muscle.
cefazolin
A first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic given by injection into a vein or muscle.