medEasyMedEasy
Englishবাংলা
Generic medicine

Cefepime Hydrochloride: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Established Indications Cefepime Hydrochloride is indicated for the treatment of the following infections caused by susceptible bacteria: Pneumonia: Moderate to severe pneumonia caused by…

About Cefepime Hydrochloride

Indications of Cefepime Hydrochloride

Established Indications

Cefepime Hydrochloride is indicated for the treatment of the following infections caused by susceptible bacteria:

  • Pneumonia: Moderate to severe pneumonia caused by susceptible organisms including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Enterobacter species.
  • Urinary tract infections: Uncomplicated and complicated urinary tract infections, including pyelonephritis.
  • Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections caused by susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible) or Streptococcus pyogenes.

Requires Combination Therapy

Complicated intra-abdominal infections — Cefepime Hydrochloride is indicated for this use only in combination with metronidazole; it is not adequate as monotherapy for this indication.

Guideline-Supported Use

Empiric therapy in febrile neutropenia — Cefepime Hydrochloride may be used as empiric monotherapy in high-risk patients with febrile neutropenia, consistent with major infectious disease society guidance. The treating physician may add an additional agent (e.g., vancomycin) in specific situations such as suspected catheter-related infection, skin/soft-tissue infection, pneumonia, hemodynamic instability, or suspected resistant organisms.

Dosage & Administration of Cefepime Hydrochloride

Cefepime Hydrochloride is given only by intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) injection under the supervision of a healthcare professional. The dose, frequency, and duration depend on the type and severity of infection being treated, the patient's age and body weight, and kidney function; dosing is not the same for every patient and must be determined by a qualified healthcare professional.

Side Effects of Cefepime Hydrochloride

Common Side Effects

  • Pain, redness, swelling, or inflammation of the vein at the injection site
  • Skin rash
  • Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Changes in some blood test results (e.g., liver enzymes, phosphorus level, clotting tests)

Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention)

Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur while receiving Cefepime Hydrochloride:

  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, swelling of the face/lips/throat, severe rash, or anaphylaxis
  • Signs of a nervous system problem (neurotoxicity), including confusion, reduced alertness, hallucinations, unusual muscle jerking (myoclonus), or seizures — this risk is higher in patients with kidney impairment whose dose has not been adjusted (see Precautions and Warnings)
  • Severe or persistent diarrhea, which may be watery or bloody and could indicate Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea/colitis; this can occur even weeks after the last dose
  • Severe skin reactions such as blistering or peeling skin (possible Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis)
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of a low blood cell count (e.g., unusual tiredness, frequent infections)
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes, or other signs of liver problems

Contraindications of Cefepime Hydrochloride

Cefepime Hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients with a known history of immediate hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis) to Cefepime Hydrochloride, to other cephalosporin antibiotics, or to other beta-lactam antibiotics such as penicillins, because of the risk of cross-reactivity.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cefepime Hydrochloride

What is Cefepime Hydrochloride used for?

Cefepime Hydrochloride is an injectable antibiotic used to treat certain serious bacterial infections, including moderate to severe pneumonia, urinary tract infections (including kidney infections), uncomplicated skin infections, and infections in patients with febrile neutropenia (fever with a low white blood cell count). It is also used, together with metronidazole, for complicated intra-abdominal infections. Cefepime Hydrochloride does not treat infections caused by viruses, such as the common cold or flu.

How is Cefepime Hydrochloride given?

Cefepime Hydrochloride is given only as an injection into a vein (intravenously) or, for some infections, into a muscle (intramuscularly). It is prepared and administered by a doctor, nurse, or other trained healthcare professional, usually in a hospital or clinic; it is not taken by mouth and cannot be self-administered at home.

How is the dose of Cefepime Hydrochloride decided?

The dose, frequency, and duration of Cefepime Hydrochloride are determined by a healthcare professional based on the type and severity of infection, the patient's age, body weight, and especially kidney function. Dosing is not the same for every patient, and patients with reduced kidney function require a lower dose or a longer interval between doses to reduce the risk of side effects.

Can Cefepime Hydrochloride be used during pregnancy?

Cefepime Hydrochloride should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, as decided by the treating physician. Long-term observational data on cephalosporin antibiotics as a class have not shown an increased risk of major birth defects, but human data specific to Cefepime Hydrochloride are limited, so its use during pregnancy is individualized.

Is Cefepime Hydrochloride safe while breastfeeding?

Cefepime Hydrochloride passes into breast milk in small amounts. Whether to use Cefepime Hydrochloride while breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare professional, who will weigh the benefits of breastfeeding against the mother's need for the medicine.

Can children receive Cefepime Hydrochloride?

Yes, Cefepime Hydrochloride is approved for use in children from 2 months to 16 years of age for several infections, including pneumonia, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and febrile neutropenia, using a weight-based dose that does not exceed the adult dose. Its use in infants younger than 2 months should follow specialist pediatric guidance.

What medicines or conditions can interact with Cefepime Hydrochloride?

Cefepime Hydrochloride can interact with aminoglycoside antibiotics and strong diuretics such as furosemide, increasing the risk of kidney problems; it may also affect certain laboratory test results. Patients should tell their healthcare provider about all medicines they are taking and about any kidney problems before receiving Cefepime Hydrochloride.

What are the most serious side effects of Cefepime Hydrochloride?

The most serious risks associated with Cefepime Hydrochloride include severe allergic reactions, nervous system problems such as confusion, seizures, or reduced consciousness (more common in patients with kidney impairment whose dose has not been adjusted), and severe diarrhea related to Clostridioides difficile infection. Patients or caregivers should seek immediate medical attention if any of these occur.

What should I do if a dose of Cefepime Hydrochloride is missed or an overdose is suspected?

Because Cefepime Hydrochloride is given by a healthcare professional on a set schedule, a missed dose should be reported to the treating medical team so the schedule can be adjusted. If an overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical care or contact a poison control service immediately; do not try to induce vomiting unless directed to do so by a healthcare professional.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

DoctorBlogArticles