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Published on: December 10, 2016
Effect of ceftaroline on normal human intestinal microflora
Georgios Panagiotidis1, Tobias Bäckström, Charlotte Asker-Hagelberg
1Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.
Ceftaroline, a new antibiotic, showed minimal impact on the intestinal flora in healthy subjects. While some beneficial bacteria decreased, overall gut microbiota composition remained largely unaffected by this broad-spectrum cephalosporin.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Ceftaroline is a novel broad-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotic.
- It is under development for treating serious bacterial infections.
- Understanding its impact on the gut microbiome is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of ceftaroline administration on the intestinal flora of healthy individuals.
- To assess changes in bacterial populations within the gut microbiome.
- To determine the safety and ecological impact of ceftaroline on gut microbiota.
Main Methods:
- Twelve healthy subjects received intravenous ceftaroline (600 mg q12h) for 7 days.
- Plasma and fecal samples were collected to measure ceftaroline concentrations and analyze fecal flora.
- Bacterial cultures were performed on selective and nonselective media, with isolates identified and tested for susceptibility.
Main Results:
- Ceftaroline plasma concentrations ranged from 17.5 to 34.8 mg/liter during treatment.
- No ceftaroline was detected in feces throughout the study period.
- Minor decreases in Escherichia coli, moderate decreases in bifidobacteria and lactobacilli were observed, with a concurrent increase in clostridia. Enterococci, Candida albicans, and Bacteroides were unaffected.
- No new ceftaroline-resistant bacteria emerged.
Conclusions:
- Ceftaroline administration had a minor and transient impact on the human intestinal microflora.
- The observed changes in gut bacteria were not clinically significant.
- Ceftaroline demonstrated a favorable safety profile regarding its ecological impact on the gut microbiome.
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