Beta-lactam antibiotics are widely used. They inhibit the cell wall synthesis of bacteria by acting on the enzymes called "penicillin binding proteins". İn bacteria, resistance against beta-lactam antibiotics develops by three distinct mechanisms; resistance due to the changes in penicillin binding proteins, beta-lactamase enzymes and resistance due to permeability. Resistance mediated by beta-lactamase enzymes are clinically the most frequent mechanism. Beta-lactamase enzymes are studied in four groups.
current ant m crob al agents should be used w th due precaut ons for the control of resistance. Thus, antibiotic use must be in restraint from the viewpoint of duration and dosage. Necessary precautions for the prevention of infections should be taken and "antibiotic control committees" should be established in each hospital.
Key words: Antibiotics, beta-lactams, resistance
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