Deck 38: Inhibitors of Bacterial Cell Wall Synthesis

Question 1

A woman is dispensed a single dose of a drug for a urinary tract infection. Which step in bacterial cell wall synthesis is inhibited by this drug?

A) transpeptidase
B) addition of phosphoenolpyruvate
C) formation of N-acetylglucosamine
D) incorporation of D-alanine residues
E) formation of pentaglycine bridge

Answer 1

addition of phosphoenolpyruvate

Question 2

For which reason is clavulanate included in some formulations of β-lactam drugs?

A) blocks formation of cell wall precursors
B) prevents cross-linking of cell wall peptides
C) inhibits renal tubular secretion of β-lactam drugs
D) inhibits bacterial degradation of β-lactam drugs
E) inhibits renal degradation of β-lactam drugs

Answer 2

inhibits bacterial degradation of β-lactam drugs

Question 3

Which attribute is associated with a third-generation cephalosporin that is excreted primarily in the bile?

A) well absorbed from the gut
B) long plasma half-life
C) used to treat Pseudomonas infections
D) may cause platelet dysfunction and bleeding
E) prolongs the QT interval of the electrocardiogram

Answer 3

long plasma half-life

Question 4

After receiving a rapid intravenous infusion of an antibiotic, a man develops hypotension and an erythematous rash.
Which drug is most likely responsible for this adverse effect?

A) ceftriaxone
B) ertapenem
C) aztreonam
D) piperacillin
E) vancomycin