October 2025

Beta-lactamase inhibitors

Clavams (Classical β-lactam-structured inhibitors) Inhibitor Structure type Mechanism Effective vs β-lactamase class Unique features Clavulanic acid β-lactam (oxazolidine ring) Irreversible suicide substrate Class A (TEM, SHV); weak vs C/D Only natural inhibitor (from Streptomyces clavuligerus); first marketed (1981) Sulbactam β-lactam (penicillanic acid sulfone) Irreversible acyl-enzyme Class A > C (limited) Has intrinsic antibacterial activity vs […]