Penicillins and cephalosporins have which type of potential cross-reaction?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Prepare for the NCLEX exam effectively with our NCLEX Uworld Practice Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed hints and explanations to ensure you're ready for success!

Multiple Choice

Penicillins and cephalosporins have which type of potential cross-reaction?

Explanation:
Cross-sensitivity arises because penicillins and cephalosporins are both beta-lactam antibiotics that share a similar chemical structure—the beta-lactam ring. The immune system can recognize this shared core, so someone who is allergic to penicillin may mount a reaction to a cephalosporin as well. The risk is influenced by the similarity of the side chains between specific drugs, and it varies with the patient’s allergy history. In practice, a severe penicillin allergy often leads clinicians to avoid cephalosporins or use them with caution, while milder histories may permit careful use with monitoring.

Cross-sensitivity arises because penicillins and cephalosporins are both beta-lactam antibiotics that share a similar chemical structure—the beta-lactam ring. The immune system can recognize this shared core, so someone who is allergic to penicillin may mount a reaction to a cephalosporin as well. The risk is influenced by the similarity of the side chains between specific drugs, and it varies with the patient’s allergy history. In practice, a severe penicillin allergy often leads clinicians to avoid cephalosporins or use them with caution, while milder histories may permit careful use with monitoring.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy