beta-Lactam antibiotics in respiratory tract infections

beta-Lactam antibiotics have played a major role in the treatment of respiratory infections for many years. The use of the three main groups of beta-lactam antibiotics-penicillins, cephalosporins and non-classical beta-lactams-in respiratory infections is reviewed. Their development and efficacy have more or less kept pace with the changes in microbial resistance, emergence of new pathogens and changes in medical practice. Consequently, beta-lactam agents continue to make a valuable contribution to therapy of respiratory tract infections.