Grouped into generations 1-4 1st generation include cefadroxil, cefazolin, sodium 2nd-cefaclor, cefprozil, cefoxitin, cefuroxime axetil 3rd-cefaclor, cefprozil, cefoxiin, fefuroxime axetil 4th cephalosporins include cefepime hydrochloride Penicillin and cephalosporins are chemically similar watch for cross-sensitivity Not absorbed from GI well or at all second and third generation cross blood brain barrier All are secreted primarily unchanged by the kidneys WORK by inhibiting cell wall synthesis damages the cell wall allows natural defense to destroy cell 1st G- gram+ 2nd G- gram- 3rd G- gram - 4th G- both |