Sulbactam

**Semantic type:** Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** A semi-synthetic beta-lactamase inhibitor. The beta-lactam ring of sulbactam irreversibly binds to beta-lactamase at or near its active site, thereby blocking enzyme activity and preventing metabolism of other beta-lactam antibiotics by the enzyme. Combining this agent with a beta-lactamase susceptible antibiotic, such as penicillins or a cephalosporin, to treat infections caused by beta-lactamase producing organisms, results in a decreased turnover rate of the beta-lactamase sensitive antibiotic and enhances its antibacterial activity.

**Synonyms:** - (2S,5R)-3,3-Dimethyl-7-oxo-4-thia-1-azabicyclo(3.2.0)heptane-2-carboxylic Acid 4,4-dioxide - CP 45899 - SULBACTAM