Cefamandole is a cephalosporin of the second generation and it is more active than those of the first generation against Gram-negative microorganisms such as Escherichia coli, Haemophilus influenzae, Enterobacter, Klebsiella and Proteus. Due to its high therapeutic effectiveness, it is used to treat infections in patients with severe organic deterioration (caused by pathogens). Most of the Gram-positive bacteria are sensitive to Cefamandole.
This antibiotic has the ability to bind to transpeptidase enzymes that serve to create the bonds between the peptidoglycan chains (the polymers essential for the formation of the bacterial wall). In turn, the transpeptidase activity inhibits the stability of the bacterial cell wall, resulting in the death of the growing bacterial cells.
In general, Cefamandole and other second-generation cephalosporins are characterized by having a broad spectrum of action that is effective on Gram-positive bacteria and on Gram-negative bacteria. They also have advantageous pharmacokinetic properties.
What is Cefamandole?
Cefamandole is used to treat various infections such as infections of the respiratory tract and genitourinary tract, biliary infections, infections of the bones and joints, infections of the skin and soft tissues and septicemia.
How should Cefamandole be taken?
Cefamandole is administered parenterally.
Side effects associated with Cefamandole
There are several recognized side effects caused by the use of Cefamandole, especially if the treatment involves high doses or if it is continued for a longer period of time (despite the fact that therapies with cephalosporins are generally proven well tolerated). The most common side effects include the following:
- Gastrointestinal disorders: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
- Kidney damage: glomerular and tubular damage;
- Hematologic abnormalities: hemolytic anemia, neutropenia, leukopenia, honey intake, liver damage;
- Neurological disorders: lethargy, spasms, convulsions;
- Allergic reactions: urticaria, angioedema, bronchospasm, itching, low blood pressure, and anaphylaxis.
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Cefamandole
Due to the fact that current scientific studies have not yet been able to characterize the safety profile of Cefamandole on the fetus, the consumption of this drug during pregnancy should only be administered in cases of urgency under close medical supervision. The same recommendations apply for breast- feeding. Particular attention should be paid to the administration of the drug in patients who are already following a therapy with potentially nephrotoxic active ingredients. Such cases may result in kidney damage induced by cephalosporins.
