Cefepime hydrochloride

Cefepime hydrochloride is a fourth-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is particularly effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Cefepime hydrochloride is commonly administered via intravenous or intramuscular injection.

Mechanism of Action

Cefepime hydrochloride works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, which inhibits the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis. This action results in the weakening of the bacterial cell wall and ultimately leads to cell lysis and death.

Indications

Cefepime hydrochloride is indicated for the treatment of various infections, including:

• Pneumonia
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Intra-abdominal infections
• Febrile neutropenia

Pharmacokinetics

Cefepime hydrochloride is well-absorbed when administered parenterally. It has a half-life of approximately 2 hours and is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine. The drug achieves high concentrations in the blood, urine, and bile, making it effective for treating infections in these areas.

Side Effects

Common side effects of cefepime hydrochloride include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Headache

Serious side effects may include:

• Anaphylaxis
• Seizures
• Clostridioides difficile infection

Contraindications

Cefepime hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or any component of the formulation. Caution is advised in patients with a history of penicillin allergy due to potential cross-reactivity.

Related Pages

• Antibiotic
• Cephalosporin
• Gram-positive bacteria
• Gram-negative bacteria
• Penicillin-binding proteins
• Bacterial cell wall