Pharmacologic treatment of neonatal sepsis: antimicrobial agents and immunotherapy

Antimicrobial agents and immunotherapies in the management of neonatal sepsis are discussed. The rationale for the selection of the most commonly used antibacterial drugs, their mechanisms of actions, and indications for use are described. Immunotherapies, both those in clinical use and those under investigation, are discussed. Antibacterial drugs remain the standard of care, but immunotherapy offers the potential for improving outcomes for neonates, especially those who are premature.