Beta-lactamase inhibitors are compounds that help combat bacterial resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics, such as penicillins and cephalosporins. These inhibitors work by blocking the action of beta-lactamase enzymes, which bacteria produce to break down and neutralize the antibiotics, allowing the drugs to remain effective against infections. Common examples of beta-lactamase inhibitors include clavulanic acid, sulbactam, and tazobactam. When combined with beta-lactam antibiotics, these inhibitors enhance the antibiotics' ability to fight resistant bacterial strains, making them valuable in treating various infections and improving patient outcomes.