Cefepime
Group
Fourth-generation Cephalosporin
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to PBPs. Broad-spectrum activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Resistant to many beta-lactamases.
Indications
- Severe infections due to Gram-negative bacteria (UTI, sepsis, pneumonia)
- Febrile neutropenia
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Intra-abdominal infections (with metronidazole)
- Pseudomonal infections
Dose
- Adults: 1–2 g IV every 12 hours (max 6 g/day)
- Children: 50 mg/kg IV every 8–12 hours (max 2 g/dose)
- Adjust dose in renal impairment
Major Side Effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
- Rash
- Phlebitis at injection site
- Rare: Neurotoxicity (seizures in renal impairment)
- Superinfection with prolonged therapy
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cephalosporins
- Caution in penicillin-allergic patients
Compatible Fluid
- 0.9% Sodium chloride (normal saline)
- 5% Dextrose (Dextrose 5% in water)
Route of Administration
Intravenous (IV) or Intramuscular (IM)
Type of Administration
Parenteral injection (IV/IM)