cefepime side effects

Q: Cefepime increases the risk of candida superinfection?

A) True

B) False

Answer: A

Cefepime is one of the most frequently used antibiotics in hospitalized patients in United States. In prolonged use, it may increase risk of superinfection with enterococci and/or Candida.

Another less appreciated side effect of cefepime is nonconvulsive status epilepticus, particularly in patients with decreased renal function.

#pharmacology

References:

Lynch JP 3rd. Combination antibiotic therapy is appropriate for nosocomial pneumonia in the intensive care unit. Semin Respir Infect 1993; 8:268.