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Indications

Cefpirome is a fourth-generation cephalosporin antibiotic given by injection in hospital. It is used for serious bacterial infections such as pneumonia and other lower respiratory tract infections, complicated urinary tract and kidney infections, skin and soft tissue infections, bloodstream infections (septicaemia) and infections in patients with low white blood cell counts and fever.

How It Works

Cefpirome kills bacteria by blocking the enzymes they need to build their cell walls. Without a proper wall the bacteria burst and die. It works against a wide range of bacteria, including many that resist older cephalosporins, such as some strains of Pseudomonas and Enterobacter.

Dosage and Administration

Cefpirome is given by a doctor or nurse as an injection or infusion into a vein. The usual adult dose is 1 to 2 g every 12 hours, depending on the infection and its severity. The dose is reduced in kidney impairment. Treatment length depends on the infection and is decided by the doctor.

Interactions

Using it with Aminoglycosides (such as Gentamicin) or strong diuretics (such as Furosemide) may increase the risk of kidney damage, so kidney function is monitored. It may make the oral typhoid vaccine less effective and can affect some urine sugar tests.

Contraindications

Do not use in people allergic to Cefpirome or other cephalosporins, or who have had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to Penicillins or other beta-lactam antibiotics.

Side Effects

Possible side effects include diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, rash, itching, pain or swelling at the injection site, headache, taste changes and changes in blood tests (liver enzymes, blood counts). Thrush may develop.

Tell staff immediately or get urgent medical help if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing, widespread rash), severe or bloody diarrhoea (which can occur during or weeks after treatment), seizures, confusion, or unusual bleeding or bruising.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Information on use in pregnancy is limited; it is used only if the doctor decides the benefit is greater than the risk. Small amounts may pass into breast milk; the doctor will advise whether breastfeeding should continue.

Precautions and Warnings

Tell the doctor about any allergy to antibiotics, kidney disease, history of seizures or bowel inflammation (colitis). Long or high-dose courses need monitoring of blood counts and kidney function. Overuse of antibiotics can lead to resistant bacteria, so it is reserved for appropriate infections.

Overdose

Very high levels, especially in people with kidney failure, may cause confusion, muscle twitching or seizures. Overdose is managed in hospital; the medicine can be removed by dialysis.

Therapeutic Class

Antibiotic (fourth-generation cephalosporin).

Storage

Hospital medicine: store as directed on the pack, below 30°C, protected from light and out of the reach of children.