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AAT Bioquest

What are the differences between beta lactam and non beta lactam?

Posted October 2, 2023


Answer

Beta Lactam: 

  • Have a beta lactam ring within their molecular structure
  • Are more powerful than non beta lactam antibiotics
  • Examples include Penicillin Derivatives, Monobactams, Carbapenems, and Cephalosporins
  • Inhibit the synthesis of bacterial cell walls

Non Beta Lactam: 

  • Do not have a beta lactam ring within their molecular structure
  • Are less powerful than beta lactam antibiotics
  • Examples include Chloramphenicol, Vancomycin, Daptomycin, and Fosfomycin
  • Inhibit protein and nucleic acid synthesis, disrupt the membranes of cells, and function as antimetabolites of bacteria
Additional resources

β-Lactams and β-Lactamase Inhibitors: An Overview

Amplite® Colorimetric Beta-Lactamase Activity Assay Kit