Which group of antibiotics is indicated for infections caused by resistant Gram-negative bacteria?

Carbapenems are a class of antibiotics that are particularly effective against a range of Gram-negative bacteria, including many that are resistant to other antibiotics. They are considered a last-line treatment option for multidrug-resistant infections. This group of antibiotics works by inhibiting cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial cell death.

The unique structure of carbapenems allows them to be resistant to many beta-lactamases, enzymes produced by some bacteria that inactivate other types of beta-lactam antibiotics. This property makes carbapenems a crucial resource in treating severe infections caused by resistant Gram-negative organisms, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacteriaceae, including strains resistant to third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins.

In contrast, macrolides are primarily used for treating respiratory infections and are not the first line against resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Tetracyclines have utility in treating a variety of infections, but their effectiveness against resistant Gram-negatives is limited. Glycopeptides mainly target Gram-positive bacteria, making them less suitable for Gram-negative infections. Thus, carbapenems stand out as the appropriate choice in this context.