Oral and intravenous fosfomycin in complicated urinary tract infections

Rev Esp Quimioter. 2019 May;32 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):37-44.

Abstract

Urinary tract infections are one of the most common health problems and entail a high consumption of health system resources. Due to the increase in global antibiotic resistances in recent years, it is increasingly common to find uropathogens with multiple resistance mechanisms, including quinolone-resistant bacteria, broad-spectrum β-lactamase producers and carbapenemase producers. In this scenario, the role of fosfomycin has gained considerable importance, given its spectrum of activity against multidrug resistant microorganisms (Gram-positive and Gram-negative), becoming an attractive alternative therapy. Regarding the use of fosfomycin in complicated urinary tract infections, there is increasing clinical experience with patients with infections caused by multidrug resistant bacteria, those with recurrent urinary tract infection and special populations such as those with kidney transplants. Randomized comparative studies and series are underway, which will provide greater evidence. Nevertheless, more studies are needed to confirm the enormous potential of fosfomycin in complicated urinary tract infection in the era of multiresistance.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Intravenous
  • Administration, Oral
  • Animals
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / administration & dosage
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacokinetics
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial
  • Fosfomycin / administration & dosage
  • Fosfomycin / pharmacokinetics
  • Fosfomycin / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Urinary Tract / metabolism
  • Urinary Tract Infections / complications
  • Urinary Tract Infections / drug therapy*
  • Urinary Tract Infections / microbiology

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Fosfomycin