Cefepime is an antibiotic (fourth generation cephalosporin) that acts in a manner similar to that of Ceftazidime. It is used to treat Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter cloacae, and Staphylococcus aureus.
Cefepime is able to inhibit the synthesis of bacterial cell wall of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms, in turn compromising the structural properties and leading to death of the bacterial cells.
What is Cefepime?
Cefepime is used to treat the following infections:
- Pneumonia
- Infections of the reproductive organs, urinary tract and kidneys
- Dermatological infections
- Infections of the blood caused by bacteria (bacteremia)
- Meningitis (in children)
- Infections in patients with low white blood cell count (neutropenia)
- Infections of the abdomen
How should Cefepime be taken?
Cefepime is taken in the form of powder solution via injection or infusion. It is administered intramuscularly through a small cannula in the vein. Typically, the treatment lasts for 7-10 days depending on the type of infection.
Side effects associated with Cefepime
There are several recognized side effects from the use of Cefepime. The most common ones include the following:
- Positive result of Coombs test (a test that shows certain blood problems)
- Blood-clotting problems (easy bruising)
- Anemia
- Inflammation, pain or burning at the injection site
- Diarrhea
- Liver disease
- Rash
Less common side effects include the following:
- Fungal infection in the mouth
- Vaginal infections
- Changes in the number of white blood cells (fever, chills and sore throat)
- Headache
- Inflammation of the large intestine (diarrhea, usually with blood and mucus, stomach pain and fever)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Hives and itching
- Kidney problems
- Fever
Rare side effects include the following:
- Severe allergic reactions (sudden swelling of the face, throat, lips or mouth which may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing, sudden swelling of hands, feet and ankles; and other possible side effects);
- Fungal infections
- Dizziness
- Convulsions
- Shortness of breath
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Cefepime
If you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant or if you are breast-feeding, it is advised to consult with your doctor before taking this medication. Particular attention should be paid in administration of Cefepime in patients who suffer from kidney problems and allergies, in elderly individuals, as well as in individuals with bowel problems, (particularly inflammatory problems such as colitis).
