Temocillin

Temocillin

Temocillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic that belongs to the penicillin class of antibiotics. It was first developed by Beecham Pharmaceuticals in the 1980s and is primarily used in the treatment of bacterial infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria, including those resistant to other antibiotics.

Chemistry

Temocillin is a 6-alpha-methoxy derivative of ticarcillin, a semi-synthetic penicillin. The addition of the methoxy group at the 6-alpha position makes temocillin resistant to degradation by most beta-lactamases, enzymes produced by bacteria that can inactivate many other penicillins and cephalosporins.

Pharmacology

Temocillin is not absorbed orally and must be administered by intravenous injection. It has a half-life of approximately 1 to 2 hours in adults with normal renal function. The drug is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine.

Clinical use

Temocillin is used in the treatment of infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, and Proteus species. It is particularly useful in treating infections caused by bacteria that produce beta-lactamases, as these enzymes do not affect temocillin.

Resistance

Resistance to temocillin can occur, but it is relatively rare. The most common mechanism of resistance is the production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) or carbapenemases by the bacteria. These enzymes can hydrolyze the beta-lactam ring of temocillin, rendering it inactive.

Side effects

The most common side effects of temocillin are similar to those of other penicillins and include allergic reactions, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases, more serious side effects such as anaphylaxis or kidney damage can occur.

See also

• Beta-lactam antibiotic
• Penicillin
• Ticarcillin
• Beta-lactamase
• Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase
• Carbapenemase