NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

What generation does Cefepime belong to?

1. 1st generation

2. 2nd generation

3. 3rd generation

4. 4th generation

The correct answer is: 4th generation

Cefepime belongs to the 4th generation of cephalosporins. This generation of cephalosporins, such as Cefepime, has an extended spectrum of activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria compared to earlier generations. It also possesses increased stability against beta-lactamases, enzymes produced by bacteria that can inactivate beta-lactam antibiotics. Therefore, the correct answer is D. Regarding the incorrect options: - 1st generation cephalosporins, like cephalexin, are primarily active against Gram-positive bacteria. - 2nd generation cephalosporins, such as cefoxitin, have increased activity against Gram-negative bacteria compared to 1st generation cephalosporins. - 3rd generation cephalosporins, like ceftriaxone, have expanded activity against Gram-negative bacteria and are often used for serious infections like pneumonia and meningitis.