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Changes in gut flora after cephalexin treatment.
British Medical Journal
|September 12, 1970
Summary
Cephalexin treatment for urinary tract infections showed variable absorption and led to increased fecal carriage of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Some patients acquired hospital-acquired strains, with one developing a subsequent infection.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common bacterial infections.
- Antibiotic resistance and hospital-acquired infections are significant healthcare concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the pharmacokinetic variability of oral cephalexin in UTI patients.
- To investigate the impact of cephalexin on the fecal carriage of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Main Methods:
- Oral administration of cephalexin to 18 UTI patients.
- Urine collection for 24-hour drug excretion analysis.
- Comparison of fecal carriage rates with a control group.
Main Results:
- Variable cephalexin absorption observed (29-89% urinary excretion).
- Significant increase in fecal Pseudomonas aeruginosa carriage in treated patients.
- Four patients acquired hospital-diet-associated Ps. aeruginosa strains.
Conclusions:
- Oral cephalexin exhibits unpredictable absorption in UTI patients.
- Cephalexin therapy can promote fecal carriage of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
- Hospital food may be a source of multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas strains.