What are the second generation cephalosporins primarily known as?

The second generation cephalosporins are primarily known for their enhanced activity against Gram-negative bacteria compared to first-generation cephalosporins. Among the options provided, Cefotetan and Cefoxitin are indeed considered second generation cephalosporins. They are specifically notable for their activity against anaerobes and certain Gram-negative rods, which makes them effective choices for treating infections that require these characteristics.

Cefotetan and Cefoxitin are often used in surgical prophylaxis and for treating intra-abdominal infections due to their broader spectrum of activity. In contrast, the other choices include other generations of cephalosporins or drugs with different classifications. For instance, Ceftazidime and Cefepime belong to the third and fourth generations, respectively, while Cefazolin and Ceftaroline also represent different generations with distinct uses and coverage. Ceftriaxone and Cefoperazone likewise pertain to the third generation. This distinction in generations and the specific antibiotic properties allows for the classification of agents based on their spectrum of activity and their clinical applications.