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Impact of cefixime on the normal intestinal microflora
C E Nord1, G Movin, D Stålberg
1Department of Microbiology, Huddinge University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Cefixime treatment significantly altered gut bacteria, reducing E. coli and increasing enterococci. Intestinal microflora normalized within two weeks post-treatment, with mild gastrointestinal side effects reported.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- The intestinal microflora plays a crucial role in maintaining gut health.
- Antibiotic use can disrupt the delicate balance of the gut microbiome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ecological effects of cefixime on the normal intestinal microflora in healthy volunteers.
- To assess the impact of cefixime on bacterial populations and identify potential side effects.
Main Methods:
- 10 healthy volunteers received cefixime 200 mg twice daily for 7 days.
- Stool samples were collected pre-treatment and at multiple time points post-treatment.
- Plasma cefixime concentrations were measured using bioassay.
Main Results:
- Cefixime significantly decreased Streptococcus and Escherichia coli, while increasing Enterococcus populations.
- Anaerobic bacteria, including Clostridia and Bacteroides, were suppressed; Bifidobacteria showed minor changes.
- Clostridium difficile was detected in 5 subjects, with cytotoxin in one; microflora normalized within 2 weeks post-treatment.
Conclusions:
- Cefixime administration causes significant, yet reversible, alterations to the human intestinal microflora.
- The observed changes in gut microbiota composition were generally transient, with normalization occurring within two weeks.
- While most side effects were mild (soft stools), the potential for Clostridium difficile overgrowth warrants consideration.