Cefepime and mortality: a real issue?

Scand J Infect Dis. 2010 Jul;42(6-7):545-8. doi: 10.3109/00365540903555349.

Abstract

The fourth-generation cephalosporin, cefepime, has an antimicrobial spectrum that makes it a valuable antibiotic for empirical treatment of neutropenic fever. Randomized trials have proven the efficacy and safety of cefepime in neutropenic fever. However, 2 recent meta-analyses have shown an increased all-cause mortality for cefepime. Since then, many clinicians have been left in doubt about the use of cefepime for this indication. In this paper, we put in perspective some of the methodological and clinical issues and call for further clinical analyses.

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects*
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bacterial Infections / drug therapy
  • Bacterial Infections / mortality*
  • Cefepime
  • Cephalosporins / adverse effects*
  • Cephalosporins / therapeutic use
  • Clinical Trials as Topic*
  • Drug Approval
  • Humans
  • Meta-Analysis as Topic*
  • United States
  • United States Food and Drug Administration

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Cephalosporins
  • Cefepime