Which of the following are ineffective against gram negative bacteria?
**Core Concept**
Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic primarily effective against gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting cell wall synthesis by binding to the D-alanyl-D-alanine terminus of cell wall precursor units, preventing their incorporation into the bacterial cell wall.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Vancomycin's lack of efficacy against gram-negative bacteria is due to its inability to penetrate the outer membrane of these organisms. The outer membrane is composed of lipopolysaccharides and proteins, which restrict the diffusion of vancomycin. As a result, vancomycin is ineffective against gram-negative bacteria, including those that cause infections such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Cefixime is a third-generation cephalosporin with a broad spectrum of activity, including efficacy against many gram-negative bacteria. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs).
**Option B:** Metronidazole is an antibiotic primarily effective against anaerobic bacteria, including those that cause infections in the gastrointestinal tract and female genital tract. Its mechanism of action involves the reduction of its nitro group, forming a highly reactive intermediate that damages DNA.
**Option D:** Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic effective against a wide range of gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting protein synthesis by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, preventing the initiation of protein synthesis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When choosing an antibiotic, it is essential to consider the spectrum of activity, including the effectiveness against gram-negative bacteria. Vancomycin's lack of efficacy against gram-negative bacteria makes it a poor choice for treating infections caused by these organisms.
**Correct Answer:**
β Correct Answer: C. Vancomycine