Which of the following is a first generation cephalosporin?

Which of the following is a first generation cephalosporin?

• A. Cefazolin
• B. Cefuroxime
• C. Cefepime
• D. Ceftazidime

Answer: (A)

A first generation cephalosporin is characterized by its effectiveness against Gram-positive bacteria and its limited activity against Gram-negative organisms. Cefazolin is recognized as a first generation cephalosporin because it has strong activity against staphylococci and streptococci, making it highly effective for skin and soft tissue infections, as well as for surgical prophylaxis. Unlike second and third generation cephalosporins, Cefazolin has a less broad spectrum of activity against Gram-negative bacteria, which is a defining feature of first generation cephalosporins. In contrast, the other choices presented are classified under different generations of cephalosporins, each with distinct microbial targets. For instance, Cefuroxime is a second generation cephalosporin, offering improved coverage against some Gram-negative bacteria compared to first generation options. Cefepime is a fourth generation cephalosporin, with enhanced activity against Gram-negative organisms and pseudomonas. Ceftazidime is also a third generation cephalosporin known for its strong activity against Gram-negative bacteria, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Thus, the identification of Cefazolin as the first generation cephalosporin is precise

A first generation cephalosporin is characterized by its effectiveness against Gram-positive bacteria and its limited activity against Gram-negative organisms. Cefazolin is recognized as a first generation cephalosporin because it has strong activity against staphylococci and streptococci, making it highly effective for skin and soft tissue infections, as well as for surgical prophylaxis. Unlike second and third generation cephalosporins, Cefazolin has a less broad spectrum of activity against Gram-negative bacteria, which is a defining feature of first generation cephalosporins.

In contrast, the other choices presented are classified under different generations of cephalosporins, each with distinct microbial targets. For instance, Cefuroxime is a second generation cephalosporin, offering improved coverage against some Gram-negative bacteria compared to first generation options. Cefepime is a fourth generation cephalosporin, with enhanced activity against Gram-negative organisms and pseudomonas. Ceftazidime is also a third generation cephalosporin known for its strong activity against Gram-negative bacteria, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Thus, the identification of Cefazolin as the first generation cephalosporin is precise