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clavulanic acid

A semisynthetic beta-lactamase inhibitor isolated from Streptomyces. Clavulanic acid contains a beta-lactam ring and binds strongly to beta-lactamase at or near its active site, thereby hindering enzymatic activity. This protects other beta-lactam antibiotics from beta-lactamase catalysis, thereby enhancing their antibacterial effects. This agent is used in conjunction with beta-lactamase susceptible antibiotics, such as penicillins and cephalosporins, to treat infections caused by beta-lactamase producing organisms.
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Synonym:antibiotic MM 14151
Chemical structure:(Z)-(2R,5R)-3-(2-Hydroxyethylidene)-7-oxo-4-oxa-1-azabicyclo(3.2.0)heptane-2-carboxylic acid
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