Final answer:
Cephalosporins are a broad group of ß-lactam antibiotics similar to penicillins, with some available for oral administration. They have low toxicity and a broad spectrum of action, coming in various generations that extend their range of antibacterial activity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cephalosporins, like penicillins, contain a ß-lactam ring which is essential for their antibacterial activity. These antibiotics are known for their broad spectrum of action against various diseases and for their low toxicity, making them one of the most widely used antibiotic groups. The core structure allows cephalosporins to be resistant to the enzymatic inactivation by ß-lactamases, which is a common resistance mechanism against antibiotics. Additionally, cephalosporins are available in different 'generations,' with the spectrum of antibacterial activity broadening from the first generation to the more recent ones, including a fifth generation.
Importantly, some cephalosporins can be administered orally. These oral cephalosporins are designed to withstand the acidic environment of the stomach, allowing them to reach the intestine where they can be absorbed into the bloodstream. While penicillin G cannot be taken orally due to its instability in the stomach, oral penicillins like penicillin V, ampicillin, and amoxicillin are formulated to be acid stable, similarly, there are cephalosporins tailored for oral use to ensure effective treatment without the need for intravenous administration.