3GC

Medical abbreviation · Drug Class

3GC
Stands forThird-generation cephalosporin
CategoriesMedical

3GC stands for Third-generation cephalosporin, a drug class abbreviation.

Cephalosporin antibiotics with enhanced gram-negative activity, including ceftriaxone, cefotaxime and ceftazidime (IV) and cefdinir and cefpodoxime (oral). Ceftriaxone is a mainstay for meningitis, pneumonia, gonorrhea and pyelonephritis.

Example: E. coli resistant to 3GC; likely ESBL producer, start carbapenem.

Usage notes

Resistance to third-generation cephalosporins is a key surveillance marker for ESBL-producing bacteria. Since 2020 the CDC has recommended a single 500 mg IM dose of ceftriaxone for uncomplicated gonorrhea. Ceftazidime is the only common third-generation agent with reliable Pseudomonas activity.

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  • ARB – Angiotensin II receptor blocker

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Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.