Cefatrizine

Cefatrizine

Chemical structure of Cefatrizine

Cefatrizine is a cephalosporin antibiotic used in the treatment of various bacterial infections. It belongs to the class of beta-lactam antibiotics, which are known for their broad-spectrum activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Mechanism of Action

Cefatrizine works by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. It binds to specific penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, which leads to the interruption of cell wall synthesis and ultimately causes bacterial cell lysis and death.

Pharmacokinetics

Cefatrizine is administered orally and is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It is distributed widely throughout the body and achieves therapeutic concentrations in various tissues and fluids. The drug is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine.

Clinical Uses

Cefatrizine is indicated for the treatment of infections caused by susceptible strains of bacteria, including:

• Respiratory tract infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections

Side Effects

Common side effects of cefatrizine include:

• Gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Allergic reactions such as rash, pruritus, and urticaria
• Hematological effects such as eosinophilia and thrombocytopenia

Contraindications

Cefatrizine is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or any component of the formulation. Caution is advised in patients with a history of penicillin allergy due to potential cross-reactivity.

Related pages

• Cephalosporin
• Antibiotic
• Beta-lactam antibiotic