Related Experiment Videos
Cefixime, in-vitro activity, pharmacokinetics and tissue penetration
J W Stone1, G Linong, J M Andrews
1Department of Medical Microbiology, Dudley Road Hospital, Birmingham, UK.
The Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
|February 1, 1989
Summary
Cefixime demonstrates potent in-vitro activity against common bacterial pathogens, including resistant strains. Its favorable pharmacokinetic profile supports potential therapeutic applications, particularly for urinary tract infections.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Microbiology
- Clinical Pharmacy
Background:
- Cefixime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic.
- Understanding its efficacy and pharmacokinetic properties is crucial for clinical application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the in-vitro antimicrobial activity of cefixime against clinical isolates.
- To compare cefixime's activity with other commonly used antibiotics.
- To assess the pharmacokinetic profile and tissue penetration of oral cefixime.
Main Methods:
- In-vitro susceptibility testing of cefixime against various clinical bacterial isolates.
- Pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers following a single oral dose.
- Cantharides-induced blister method to assess antibiotic penetration into tissue fluid.
Main Results:
- Cefixime showed good activity against Enterobacteriaceae, Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and beta-hemolytic streptococci.
- It was less effective against Staphylococcus aureus, enterococci, anaerobes, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
- Pharmacokinetic data revealed a mean serum half-life of 3.8 hours, with significant tissue fluid penetration despite slow absorption.
- Urinary concentrations remained above MICs for common urinary pathogens for up to 24 hours.
Conclusions:
- Cefixime possesses a favorable in-vitro activity spectrum, particularly against Gram-negative bacteria and certain Gram-positive cocci.
- Its pharmacokinetic properties, including good tissue penetration and sustained urinary levels, suggest efficacy in treating infections caused by susceptible organisms, especially urinary tract infections.