CEFEPIME,ENMETAZOBACTAM

Background and Date of Approval

Cefepime and enmetazobactam is a combination antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections resistant to standard antibiotic therapy. It is effective against gram-negative bacteria commonly encountered in healthcare settings that demonstrate resistance to multiple conventional agents. The combination received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on 16 January 2024 for treatment of complicated urinary tract infections (cUTIs), including pyelonephritis. Approval was supported by data from the ALLIUM clinical trial, which demonstrated superior efficacy compared with standard comparator antibiotics. This combination is considered an option for managing resistant bacterial infections in patients at elevated risk of antimicrobial resistance.

Uses

This medicine is approved to treat: Complicated urinary tract infections (cUTIs) Kidney infections (also called acute pyelonephritis) Infections caused by resistant bacteria, especially those that don’t respond to standard antibiotics Note: It is not meant for simple or common UTIs.

How is it administered?

Cefepime and Enmetazobactam are given as an injection into a vein (IV drip). It's usually given in a hospital every 8 hours, and each dose takes about 2 hours to go into the body. The standard adult dose is 2 grams of cefepime and 0.5 grams of enmetazobactam per dose. The treatment usually lasts 7 day s , but it can be longer depending on the severity of the infection. People with kidney problems may need a lower dose.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects: Nausea or upset stomach Loose stools or mild diarrhoea Headache Skin rash or redness Pain or swelling at the injection site Temporary changes in liver tests Serious Side Effects (seek medical help): Confusion, difficulty thinking clearly Seizures (especially in patients with kidney issues) Severe allergic reactions (swelling, itching, breathing trouble) Serious diarrhoea that doesn’t go away

Warnings

Allergic Reactions: Do not take if you’re allergic to cephalosporins, penicillins, or similar antibiotics. Kidney Problems: This drug can build up in people with kidney issues, so doctors adjust the dose as needed. Brain Effects: Can sometimes cause confusion, dizziness, or seizures, especially in elderly patients or those with kidney problems. Severe Diarrhoea: May cause an overgrowth of bad bacteria in the gut (Clostridioides difficile). Drug Interactions: Avoid taking it with strong water pills (like furosemide) or other antibiotics that affect the kidneys.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have any kidney problems before starting treatment. This drug stays in the body longer when the kidneys aren’t working well, which can lead to side effects. If you have a history of seizures or brain-related issues, you may need extra monitoring during treatment. Also, let your doctor know about all the medicines you're taking to avoid harmful drug interactions. Regular blood and kidney tests might be done during treatment, especially if it's given for more than a week.

Word of Advice

Complete the full course of cefepime and enmetazobactam, even if you feel better before finishing. Early discontinuation may permit bacterial regrowth and increase treatment resistance. Inform your doctor before starting if you have a history of allergies, kidney disease, or seizures. Maintain dosing schedules without skipping doses, especially during hospital-based treatment. This medicine requires doctor supervision and is available only as an intravenous formulation, not in oral tablet form.

References

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/appletter/2024/216165Orig1s000ltr.pdf https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2024/216165s000lbl.pdf https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/drug-trials-snapshots-exblifep https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36745895/ https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/nda/2024/216165Orig1s000RiskR.pdf

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cefepime enmetazobactam used for?

Cefepime enmetazobactam is used to treat complicated urinary tract infections (cUTIs), including kidney infections (pyelonephritis), caused by certain antibiotic-resistant bacteria. It is especially effective against extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing bacteria, which are resistant to many commonly used antibiotics.

Is cefepime enmetazobactam approved?

Yes, cefepime enmetazobactam has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections in adults. The approval was granted in 2024.

What kind of drug is cefepime?

Cefepime is a fourth-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It works by interfering with the formation of the bacterial cell wall, leading to the death of the bacteria. It is commonly used to treat a variety of infections caused by gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.

How much does cefepime enmetazobactam cost?

The cost of cefepime enmetazobactam in India may vary depending on the brand and hospital. On average, it can range between ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per vial. Prices may change based on availability, formulation, and location.

Written By: Muskan Patel, M.Pharm

Reviewed By: Dr. Vishwa Patel, MBBS