Cefepime belongs to which generation of cephalosporins?

Cefepime belongs to which generation of cephalosporins?

• A. First generation
• B. Second generation
• C. Third generation
• D. Fourth generation

Answer: (D)

Cefepime is a fourth-generation cephalosporin. The generations reflect how these drugs broaden gram-negative coverage and improve stability to beta-lactamases while retaining good gram-positive activity. Cefepime offers strong activity against Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and maintains solid Gram-positive coverage, with greater stability to many beta-lactamases than the earlier generations. This combination of expanded gram-negative activity (notably Pseudomonas) and robust beta-lactamase stability distinguishes it from the earlier generations, placing it in the fourth generation.

Cefepime is a fourth-generation cephalosporin. The generations reflect how these drugs broaden gram-negative coverage and improve stability to beta-lactamases while retaining good gram-positive activity. Cefepime offers strong activity against Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and maintains solid Gram-positive coverage, with greater stability to many beta-lactamases than the earlier generations. This combination of expanded gram-negative activity (notably Pseudomonas) and robust beta-lactamase stability distinguishes it from the earlier generations, placing it in the fourth generation.