Choice of cephalosporins

Article Abstract:

Cephalosporins are a group of antibiotic drugs; this report summarizes their clinical applications, side effects, and the specific bacteria against which they are effective. Cephalosporins are divided into three categories: 'first-generation', 'second-generation', and 'third-generation'. Each generation is active against a different spectrum of bacteria, and these activities are described. One clinical application of cephalosporins is the treatment of meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Specific cephalosporins are effective against some bacteria that cause meningitis, while other cephalosporins are useful in treating diseases involving different bacteria. Infections caused by Staphylococci, such as Staphylococcus aureus, can be treated with first-generation cephalosporins. Respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinusitis, also respond to certain cephalosporins. Third-generation cephalosporins are used in patients who are suspected to have a serious condition called bacteremia, a bacterial infection of the blood. In cases of urinary tract infection that are not alleviated by less costly medications, cephalosporins may be used. The drug ceftriaxone is the first choice for treating gonorrhea, and the same medication is often used to treat Lyme disease. Other applications of cephalosporins are for infections of the bones and joints and infections of the abdomen and pelvis. Side effects, the most common of which are allergic reactions, are discussed, and specific cephalosporins recommended for inclusion in hospital formularies are listed. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Complications and side effects

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Fosfomycin for urinary tracts infections

Article Abstract:

Fosfomycin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic which has gained FDA approval for treating simple urinary tract infections in women in a single oral dose. It is marketed by Forest under the brand name Monurol. Fosfomycin is generally free of side effects, although a small percentage of women had diarrhea or developed vaginitis. It is moderately effective and relatively expensive. A comparison with a three-day regimen of the less expensive trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole has not yet been done.

Usage, Co-trimoxazole, Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Drug combination), Monurol (Medication)

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Cefepime (Maxipime) - a new parenteral cephalosporin

Article Abstract:

Cefepime hydrochloride (Maxipime), a new cephalosporin, received FDA approval for the treatment of urinary tract infections, skin infections, and bacterial pneumonia. Similar in therapeutic benefit to ceftazidime, cefotaxime, and ceftriaxone, cefepime hydrochloride also causes similar side effects, such as headache, nausea, rash, diarrhea, and vomiting. It is unclear what advantages distinguish the new drug from the older ones.

Pneumonia, Bacterial pneumonia, Maxipime (Medication)

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