Cephradine

Cephradine is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used in the treatment of bacterial infections caused by susceptible, usually gram-positive, organisms. It is effective against a wide range of bacterial infections, including those affecting the respiratory tract, urinary tract, skin, and soft tissues. Cephradine works by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell death.

Medical Uses

Cephradine is indicated for the treatment of various bacterial infections, including:

• Pharyngitis and tonsillitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes
• Otitis media
• Sinusitis
• Infections of the lower respiratory tract due to Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Streptococcus pyogenes
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, and Klebsiella species
• Skin and soft tissue infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes

Pharmacology

Cephradine is a bactericidal agent that acts by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, disrupting the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis. This leads to weakening of the cell wall and ultimately causes cell lysis and death.

Administration

Cephradine can be administered orally or as a parenteral formulation. The dosage and duration of therapy depend on the type and severity of the infection as well as the patient's age and renal function.

Side Effects

Common side effects of cephradine include:

• Gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Allergic reactions, which may manifest as rash, pruritus, or more severe reactions in hypersensitive individuals
• Transient increases in liver enzymes

Precautions

Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or penicillins should use cephradine with caution due to the potential for cross-reactivity. It should also be used with caution in patients with renal impairment, with dose adjustments as necessary.

Drug Interactions

Cephradine may interact with other medications, including:

• Probenecid, which can increase cephradine serum levels by decreasing renal excretion
• Anticoagulants, as cephradine may potentiate the effects of anticoagulants and increase the risk of bleeding

Conclusion

Cephradine is a valuable antibiotic in the treatment of various bacterial infections. Its effectiveness against a broad spectrum of bacteria, coupled with its safety profile, makes it a useful option in the management of infections in both adults and children.