Final answer:
Fourth-generation cephalosporins cover a broad range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria but are not effective against extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producing bacteria or those with carbapenemase-mediated resistance. They are especially utilized for treating hospital-acquired infections and resistant strains of Gram-negative bacteria.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fourth-generation cephalosporins are a class of β-lactam antibiotics very similar in structure and function to penicillins. These antibiotics are designed to combat bacteria by inhibiting cell wall synthesis and are particularly effective against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Nonetheless, they are not effective against bacteria producing extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs), which can inactivate a broad range of β-lactam antibiotics. However, 4th generation cephalosporins are resistant to β-lactamases produced by many Gram-negative bacteria, making them effective in treating infections caused by otherwise resistant strains. Besides, they retain activity against Gram-positive bacteria, making them highly valuable in a clinical setting, especially for treating hospital-acquired infections. Nevertheless, these antibiotics are generally not effective against drug-resistant bacteria that produce carbapenemases, which can inactivate all β-lactams, including both cephalosporins and carbapenems.