Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Carboxypenicillin
Introduction
The carboxypenicillins are a group of antibiotics. They belong to the penicillin family and comprise the members carbenicillin and ticarcillin.
Chemical structure
Chemical structure
The carboxypenicillins feature the beta-lactam backbone of all penicillins but also feature a carboxylic acid or carboxylic acid ester group in the variable side-chain.
Spectrum
Spectrum
The carboxypenicillins exhibit activity against gram negative organisms including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus species. They are inactive against certain gram positive pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, and L. monocytogenes. The carboxypenicillins are beta-lactamase sensitive.