NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

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Which antibiotic class is active against ESBL-producing organisms?

  1. Monobactams

  2. Carbapenems

  3. Quinolones

  4. Aminoglycosides

The correct answer is: Carbapenems

Carbapenems are the correct answer because they are broad-spectrum antibiotics that are effective against ESBL-producing organisms. ESBL (Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase) is an enzyme produced by certain bacteria that can deactivate beta-lactam antibiotics, such as penicillins and cephalosporins. Carbapenems are less affected by these enzymes and are often recommended for the treatment of infections caused by ESBL-producing organisms. Monobactams (A) are also beta-lactam antibiotics but are not as reliably effective against ESBL-producing organisms compared to carbapenems. Quinolones (C) and aminoglycosides (D) are not beta-lactam antibiotics and are not specifically known for their efficacy against ESBL-producing organisms.