The safety of cefepime in the treatment of infection

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Published on: December 10, 2016

Lorenzo Drago1, Elena De Vecchi

  • 1University of Milan, Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Preclinical Science, LITA Vialba, Via GB Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy. lorenzo.drago@unimi.it

Expert Opinion on Drug Safety
|July 11, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Cefepime, a fourth-generation cephalosporin, is used for severe infections. However, concerns about its safety, including neurotoxicity and higher mortality, warrant caution until more evidence is available.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Clinical Safety

Background:

  • Cefepime is a fourth-generation cephalosporin antibiotic.
  • It is typically reserved for severe nosocomial pneumonia and febrile neutropenia.
  • Also indicated for complicated urinary tract and intra-abdominal infections, and skin structure infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review available data on the safety of cefepime.
  • To address concerns regarding neurotoxic effects and all-cause mortality associated with cefepime.
  • To evaluate cefepime safety based on literature up to December 2007.

Main Methods:

  • Literature search of the PubMed database.
  • Combined search terms included 'cefepime' and 'safety' or 'clinical trials'.
  • Reviewed data up to December 2007.

Main Results:

  • Reports indicate potential neurotoxic effects with cefepime use.
  • Some studies suggest a higher all-cause mortality with cefepime compared to other treatments.
  • Existing data raises safety concerns requiring further investigation.

Conclusions:

  • Caution is advised when prescribing cefepime.
  • Further evidence is needed to fully establish the safety profile of cefepime.
  • The review highlights the importance of ongoing safety monitoring for this antibiotic.

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