What is Ceftobiprole?

Ceftobiprole is a type of broad spectrum antibiotic that is classified as a type of cephalosporin. Although it has been approved for use in several countries, as of January 2011 it has not been approved in the United States for general use. Tests show this antibiotic can be an effective treatment for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections.

As a broad spectrum antibiotic, ceftobiprole can be used to treat many infections. Cephalosporins are structurally similar to certain other antibiotics, such as penicillin. This allows a cephalosporin to directly interfere with bacteria growth. The difference is that this particular antibiotic is synthetic, which means it is chemically produced.

Ceftobiprole is believed to be effective because of both its composition and the types of bacteria it will kill. Bacterial grouping is split into two categories: gram negative and gram positive. Gram negative bacteria have an outer cell membrane that appears red or pink in stain testing, while gram positive bacteria do not have a membrane and appear violet. This fifth generation cephalosporin works against both forms of bacteria.

Staphylococcus aureus is a particularly difficult bacteria to fight. An invasion often leads to an infection of the skin and soft tissue. It has developed a genetic resistance to many antibiotics, which increases the infection’s risk of causing death because it cannot be effectively treated. Since this antibiotic can be used to kill both categories of bacteria, it is effective for staph infections.

Generally, most patients tolerate ceftobiprole well. Minimal side effects have been noted and include nausea, a change in taste, and diarrhea. These side effects decrease with continued treatment and often stop completely after treatment finished. If these symptoms become bothersome, taking the medication with a light meal or snack can help reduce them.

Serious side effects are rare. Patients who are allergic to penicillin may also have an allergy to ceftobiprole and should be monitored for hives, rash, or itching. If chest pain, fever, fainting, or black stools occur, immediate medical attention is needed. If any other symptoms occur, such as difficulty breathing, emergency care is also necessary.

In the United States, this type of antibiotic has only been approved for fast track use in limited areas. Relying on research data and usage in other countries, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved ceftobiprole for treating severe skin infections, pneumonia, and diabetic foot infections. Use is also restricted to hospital settings, where these types of infections are more commonly contracted.