Phase I study of multiple-dose cefprozil and comparison with cefaclor

Exploring the pharmacokinetics of second-generation cephalosporin, cefaclor: a systematic review in healthy and diseased populations

Cefaclor is a bactericidal antibiotic recommended for treating diverse types of infections. This review aims to comprehensively assess the pharmacokinetic (PK) data on cefaclor in humans.Google Scholar, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EBSCO databases were systematically performed to identify all the relevant studies containing at least one reported PK parameter of cefaclor.Cefaclor shows the linear PK profile as the area under the plasma concentration-time curve from 0 to t (AUC0-t) and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) increase in a dose-dependent manner. The AUC0-t of cefaclor in the rice diet was found to be higher than that of bread food, i.e. 19.9 ± 2.6 ug/ml.hr vs 15.4 ± 4 ug/ml.hr. The AUC in paediatrics during the fed state was significantly higher compared to that in adults. Patients with renal impairments showed a Cmax 2.2 times higher than that of normal subjects. A significant increase in Cmax was depicted among individuals following a vegetarian diet in comparison with the non-vegetarian diet. Moreover, cefaclor exhibits time-dependent killing above the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC < 2 ug), favouring its use in treating infections caused by specific pathogens.This systematic review summarises all the reported PK parameters of cefaclor in healthy and diseased subjects in the literature. This data can help practitioners in adjusting cefaclor doses among different diseases and populations to avoid drug interactions and adverse effects.

Aquasomes nanoformulation for controlled release of drug and improved effectiveness against bacterial infections

Aim: The study aimed to develop and evaluate an aquasome drug-delivery system for controlled drug delivery of cefprozil monohydrate. Materials & methods: Aquasomes were prepared by the spinal method with a calcium phosphate core, sugar-coated using cellobiose and drug-loaded by adsorption. The formulations were characterized for size, morphology and drug release. An antibacterial study was conducted for Gram-positive and -negative bacteria. Results: It showed particle size of 2791.9 nm, zeta potential of -0.3 mV with good stability, and 99.08% of drug loading and drug release were controlled and prolonged, achieving 56% within 8 h and possessing potential for 100% release beyond 12 h. Conclusion: An aquasome drug-delivery system was developed for novel controlled drug delivery for pharmaceutical antibiotic therapeutics.

Pharmacokinetic and Bioequivalence Evaluation of Two Cefprozil Dispersible Tablets in Healthy Chinese Volunteers

This study aimed to assess the bioequivalence of 2 cefprozil dispersible tablet formulations (250 mg) in healthy Chinese volunteers under fasting and fed conditions and to determine the pharmacokinetics of cefprozil. A randomized, single-dose, open-label, 2-formulation, 2-period study was conducted. The elimination period for this study was 7 days. Forty-eight healthy volunteers received 250-mg cefprozil dispersible tablets in each study period under both test and reference conditions. The test and the reference cefprozil were bioequivalent in healthy Chinese volunteers, and there was no significant food effect in individuals receiving either formulation. No serious adverse event was recorded, and no volunteers withdrew from the study.

Population Pharmacokinetic Analysis of Cefaclor in Healthy Korean Subjects

The aims of this study were: (1) to perform population pharmacokinetic analysis of cefaclor in healthy Korean subjects, and (2) to investigate possible effects of various covariates on pharmacokinetic parameters of cefaclor. Although cefaclor belongs to the cephalosporin family antibiotic that has been used in various indications, there have been very few population studies on factors affecting its pharmacokinetics. Therefore, this study is very important in that effective therapy could be possible through a population pharmacokinetic study that explores effective covariates related to cefaclor pharmacokinetic diversity between individuals. Pharmacokinetic results of 48 subjects with physical and biochemical parameters were used for the population pharmacokinetic analysis of cefaclor. A one-compartment with lag-time and first-order absorption/elimination was constructed as a base model and extended to include covariates that could influence between-subject variability. Creatinine clearance and body weight significantly influenced systemic clearance and distribution volume of cefaclor. Cefaclor’s final population pharmacokinetic model was validated and some of the population’s pharmacokinetic diversity could be explained. Herein, we first describe the establishment of a population pharmacokinetic model of cefaclor for healthy Koreans that might be useful for customizing cefaclor or exploring additional covariates in patients.

Population Pharmacokinetics of Cis-, Trans-, and Total Cefprozil in Healthy Male Koreans

Cefprozil, one of cephalosporin antibiotics, has been used extensively in clinics. However, pharmacokinetic (PK) information on cefprozil is still very limited. There have been no reports of population pharmacokinetics (PPKs). A PPK model for cefprozil will be a great advantage for clinical use. Thus, the aim of this study was to develop a PPK model for cefprozil for healthy male Koreans. Clinical PK and demographic data of healthy Korean males receiving cefprozil at a dose of 1000 mg were analyzed using Phoenix^® NLME™. A one-compartment model with first-order absorption with lag-time was constructed as a base model. The model was extended to include covariates that influenced between-subject variability. Creatinine clearance significantly influenced systemic clearance of cefprozil. The final PPK model for cis-, trans-, and total cefprozil was established and validated. PPK parameter values of cis- and total cefprozil were similar to each other, but different from those of trans-isomer. Herein, we describe the establishment of accurate PPK models of cis-, trans-, and total cefprozil for healthy male Koreans for the first time. It may be useful as a dosing algorithm for the general population. These results might also contribute to the development of stereoisomeric cefprozil.

An LC-MS/MS method for simultaneous determination of cefprozil diastereomers in human plasma and its application for the bioequivalence study of two cefprozil tablets in healthy Chinese volunteers

A rapid and sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric method was developed for the first time and validated for the determination of cefprozil diastereomers in human plasma. The plasma samples were prepared by protein precipitation using acetonitrile. Detection was performed using an electronic spray ion source in the negative ion mode, operating in the multiple reaction monitoring of the transitions m/z 388.0 to m/z 205.0 for cefprozil diastereomers and m/z 346.1 to m/z 268.1 for cephalexin (the internal standard). The calibration curves of cis-cefprozil and trans-cefprozil were linear in the ranges 0.125-16.0 µg/mL and 0.0403-1.72 µg/mL, respectively. The lower limits of quantification of cis- and trans-cefprozil were 0.125 and 0.0403 µg/mL in human plasma, respectively. The intra- and inter-day precisions of cis- and trans-cefprozil were all <9.7%, and the accuracy ranged from 99.2 to 104.7% and from 100.6 to 102.2%, respectively. The validated method was successfully applied to a bioequivalence study of two cefprozil formulations in 24 healthy Chinese volunteers. The two cefprozil tablets were bioequivalent by measurement of cis-, trans- and total cefprozil. We suggest that the bioequivalence of cefprozil formulations can be evaluated only using cis-cefprozil as the analyte in future studies.

Oral cephalosporins: current perspectives

Oral cephalosporins had been, for years, a small group of compounds belonging to the first or second-generation cephalosporins, with a limited antimicrobial spectrum. New oral first-generation cephalosporins include cefprozil and loracarbef, similar to cefadroxil and cefaclor, respectively, with activity similar to cefaclor but with pharmacokinetic improvements. Second-generation oral cephalosporins are esters of already available cephalosporins, and third-generation oral cephalosporins include a number of drugs whose activity is similar to available parenteral drugs, showing pharmacokinetic advantages and, some of them, better resistance to hydrolysis mediated by extended wide-spectrum beta-lactamases. They may be a good alternative against mild to moderate ENT infections, UTIs, STDs, lower respiratory tract and skin and soft tissue infections, mainly in the outpatient setting.

HPLC method for simultaneous determination of cefprozil diastereomers in human plasma

A high-performance liquid chromatography method was developed for the determination of cefprozil diastereomers in human plasma. Cefprozil exists as cis and trans isomer at the ratio of 90:10. Plasma samples were prepared by protein precipitation using acetonitrile, trichloroacetic acid and methylene chloride. After the mixtures were vortexed and centrifuged, the aqueous supernatant was injected into a reversed-phase C8 column. The mobile phase consisted of acetonitrile, glacial acetic acid and distilled water at the volume ratio of 5.5:1.75:92.75 (pH 2.7). The signals were monitored with UV detection at 280 nm. The calibration curves of cis and trans isomer were linear in concentration ranges of 0.1-25 and 0.02-2.5 microg/mL with the correlation coefficient of 0.9999 and 0.9989, respectively. After oral administration of cefprozil in humans, Cmax and Tmax of total cefprozil were 18.80 +/- 2.14 microg/mL and 2.06 +/- 0.62 h. This method was sensitive with excellent selectivity and reproducibility, and successfully applied to a bioavailability study of cefprozil in healthy subjects.

Efficacy of cephalexin two vs. three times daily vs. cefadroxil once daily for streptococcal tonsillopharyngitis

The purpose of this study was to compare the bacteriologic and clinical efficacy of oral cephalexin twice vs. three times daily vs. cefadroxil once daily as therapy for group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal (GABHS) tonsillopharyngitis. A prospective open-label, observational cohort study was conducted over 18 months (January 2000-June 2001). Children enrolled had an acute onset of symptoms and signs of a tonsillopharyngeal illness and a laboratory-documented GABHS infection. Follow-up examination and laboratory testing occurred 21 +/- 4 days following enrollment. Two hundred seventy-one patients were enrolled (intent to treat group): 63 received cephalexin twice daily, 124 received cephalexin three times daily, and 84 received cefadroxil once daily. Fifty-three children did not return for the follow-up visit, leaving 218 patients in the per-protocol group: 54 cephalexin twice-daily treated, 94 cephalexin 3-times daily treated, and 70 cefadroxil once-daily treated. In the per-protocol group, bacteriologic cure for those treated with cephalexin twice daily was 87%, for cephalexin 3 times daily, it was 81% and for cefadroxil once daily it was 81% (p = 0.61). The clinical cure rate for cephalexin twice-daily treatment was 91%; for three-times daily, it was 86%; and for cefadroxil once daily, it was 84% (p = 0.56). Because treatment allocation was not randomized, logistic regression analysis was used to adjust for treatment group differences. Younger age of patient was significantly associated with bacteriologic (p = 0.04) and clinical (p = 0.01) failure independent of treatment group but in the adjusted logistic model no differences were found among the 3 treatment regimens. Cephalexin dosed twice daily or three times daily and cefadroxil dosed once daily appear equivalent in bacteriologic and clinical cure of GABHS tonsillopharyngitis.

Cefprozil: a review

Cefprozil is a novel third generation, broad-spectrum oral cephalosporin with activity against a spectrum of aerobic gram-negative and positive bacteria, as well as certain anaerobes. The beta-lactamase stability of cefprozil may exceed that of other oral cephalosporins for some important pathogens. Cefprozil may be a suitable alternative to several other commonly used beta-lactams and cephalosporins in the treatment of mild to moderate upper and lower respiratory tract infections including sinusitis, otitis media, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, secondary bacterial infection of acute bronchitis, and acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, and skin and skin structure infections in children. Available data indicate the safety of cefprozil in both pediatric and adult population.

Comparative target site pharmacokinetics of immediate- and modified-release formulations of cefaclor in humans

Optimal dosing of beta-lactam antibiotics aims at maximizing the time at which drug levels in the interstitial space fluid (ISF)--the fluid that surrounds the causative microorganisms at the target site--exceed the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). One potentially attractive strategy to achieve this goal is to administer antibiotics as oral sustained-release formulations. The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that sustained-release formulations could lead to a more suitable pharmacokinetic profile in the ISF at the relevant target site. For this purpose, time versus cefaclor concentration profiles attained in the ISF were measured following administration of two formulations, an immediate- (500 mg IR) and a modified-release formulation in two different doses (500 mg MR and 750 mgMR) in a three-way crossover study of healthy male volunteers (n = 12). For the measurement of unbound cefaclor concentrations in the ISF of human skeletal muscle, the in vivo microdialysis technique was employed. For all three formulations, unbound cefaclor concentration in the ISF closely followed individual plasma concentration profiles in a dose-dependent pattern, with ISF to unbound plasma ratios ranging from 0.67 to 0.73. The mean residence time was found to be significantly longer for the MR formulations versus the IR formulation. The data of the present study indicate that time above MIC values at the target site can be substantially prolonged if an antibiotic is administered as a sustained-release product.

Clinical pharmacokinetics of newer cephalosporins

Several new cephalosporins have been developed in recent years. These agents include several oral and parenteral agents with extended activity against Gram-negative pathogens. The pharmacokinetic literature for these agents is quite extensive; therefore, we have summarised this information and presented it in tabular form for critical comparison. With a few exceptions, the newer cephalosporins share similar pharmacokinetic properties. Cefixime, cefetamet pivoxil and ceftibuten differ from the others in that they exhibit nonlinear pharmacokinetic properties. The nonlinear nature of these agents is reflected by decreasing maximal concentrations with escalating doses of cefixime and cefetamet pivoxil, decreasing area under the serum concentration-time curve with increasing doses for cefixime, and a reduced bioavailability with large doses of ceftibuten. Attention to such characteristics aid the clinician in selecting appropriate dosage regimens that will optimise drug absorption. The majority of agents are primarily renally eliminated; however, renal elimination accounts for only 20% of cefixime elimination. The pharmacokinetic parameters noted for the newer cephalosporins are not influenced by multiple-dose administration, suggesting lack of drug accumulation over time. The pharmacodynamics of antimicrobials should be considered when extrapolating pharmacokinetic information into the clinical arena. In the case of the beta-lactams, the time which drug concentrations remain above some critical threshold, such as the minimal inhibitory concentration, appears to have the greatest influence on bactericidal activity. Therefore, it is important to select dosage regimens that will optimise the time serum concentrations remain above this threshold. We present an evaluation of these agents with respect to their activity against a variety of pathogens in an effort to demonstrate a pharmacokinetically-based process of antimicrobial selection.

Clinical and economic considerations in the use of third-generation oral cephalosporins

A number of oral third-generation cephalosporins (cefixime, cefetamet pivoxil, ceftibuten and cefpodoxime proxetil) have been widely trialled and are becoming available. In addition, cefdinir may also be marketed. Compared with first- and second-generation agents, the oral third-generation cephalosporins have an improved antibacterial spectrum and reduced minimum inhibitory concentrations against common Gram-negative pathogens. In contrast, with the exception of cefdinir, they are less active against Staphylococcus aureus. They have favourable pharmacokinetic profiles and are generally administered in once- or twice-daily regimens. They are well tolerated, but cefixime has been associated with a particularly high rate of diarrhoea. Possible clinical indications for the use of oral third-generation cephalosporins include upper and lower respiratory, genitourinary and soft-tissue infections and follow-on treatment of severe infections requiring hospitalisation. At present, these drugs offer no particular clinical advantages over standard therapy in most circumstances. However, they may be considered where there is hypersensitivity to penicillins, a high incidence of resistance to first-line therapy in the community, or failure of standard therapy. Further studies are needed to define the efficacy of oral third-generation agents in the prevention of rheumatic fever and as follow-on therapy for severe infections. The oral third-generation cephalosporins are generally more expensive than standard agents, but detailed studies that include extended costs (e.g. treatment of adverse effects, treatment of clinical failure, return visits to physicians) have yet to be reported.

Comparative efficacy and safety of cefprozil versus penicillin, cefaclor and erythromycin in the treatment of streptococcal pharyngitis and tonsillitis

Cefprozil is a new oral cephalosporin with an enhanced in vitro spectrum of activity that includes group A beta-hemolytic streptococci (GABHS). Four multicenter randomized clinical trials were conducted to compare the clinical efficacy and safety of cefprozil administered once or twice a day for the treatment of mild to moderate GABHS tonsillitis and pharyngitis. A total of 1597 patients were enrolled in the trials. Patient demographics and severity of infection were similar for all treatment groups. In Study 1, cefprozil administered at 20 mg/kg once daily was clinically, in 68 of 76 patients (89%) and bacteriologically, in 66 of 74 patients (89%) superior to penicillin -51 of 69 (74%) and 46 of 69 (67%)--administered three times a day in patients of two to 12 years of age. In Study 2, the patients enrolled were 13 years of age and older, and cefprozil administered at 20 mg/kg once a day had similar clinical (93% vs. 90%) and bacteriological (95% vs. 94%) response rates as cefaclor administered three times a day. Study 3 demonstrated that cefprozil administered twice daily was similar to penicillin given three times a day, the clinical satisfactory response being 164 of 175 (94%) for cefprozil and 146 of 165 (88%) for penicillin. In Study 4, identical clinical and bacteriologic responses (95%) were observed for cefprozil administered once a day and erythromycin ethylsuccinate administered four times a day in children over two years of age. There were no significant differences in the incidence or severity of drug-related adverse events, which, when reported, were mild and transient.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Multiple-dose pharmacokinetics of ceftibuten after oral administration to healthy volunteers

The pharmacokinetics of ceftibuten in plasma and urine were investigated after oral administration. Twelve healthy subjects were treated orally twice daily with 400 mg of the drug for 7 days; on day 8, the subjects received a last dose of 400 mg of ceftibuten. Ceftibuten and its metabolite, the trans isomer of ceftibuten, were assayed in plasma and urine by a specific HPLC method with UV detection. Ceftibuten was rapidly absorbed, as evidenced by the mean time to the maximum observed cis-ceftibuten concentration of 2.4 h. To describe the drug intake process, a Weibull model was used. For the metabolite, the mean time to maximum concentration in plasma was 3.25 h. Mean values for the terminal half-life in plasma were 2.17 h for cis-ceftibuten and 3.19 h for trans-ceftibuten. The overall elimination half-life, tmax, and total and renal clearances of cis-ceftibuten were invariant with respect to duration of dosing. The area under the plasma concentration versus time curve from 0 to infinity and the Cmax of this drug were significantly higher on day 8 than the values predicted from the elimination half-life computed on day 1 of treatment and the dosing interval. The pharmacokinetic parameters of trans-ceftibuten were invariant with respect to duration of dosing. Ceftibuten was well tolerated; there were no clinically significant adverse clinical events. The results from the present study indicate that the levels of cis-ceftibuten in plasma as well as in urine remain above the MICs for susceptible organisms over the dosing interval.

Effects of time of administration and posture on the pharmacokinetics of cefprozil

The effects of time of administration, sleep and posture on the pharmacokinetics of cefprozil were evaluated in a single-dose 3-way crossover study. After a 6-hour fast, 12 healthy male volunteers received oral cefprozil 250mg at 1200h (treatment A), 1200h (treatment B) and 2400h (treatment C) with a 7-day washout interval between each treatment. During the study period, volunteers receiving treatment A remained in a sitting/standing position or were ambulatory, those receiving treatment B were in the supine position, and those receiving treatment C were sleeping. Blood samples were taken over an 8-hour period and the plasma samples were analysed for the concentrations of cefprozil by a high performance liquid chromatography-ultraviolet method. Plasma concentration vs time data were analysed using noncompartmental analysis methods. Mean peak plasma concentrations (Cmax) were 4.51, 5.02 and 4.91 mg/L for treatments A, B and C, respectively. Corresponding mean values of the area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC(0-infinity)) were 12.6, 12.6 and 14.2 mg/L.h, respectively. The mean half-life (t1/2) values were 1.30, 1.23 and 1.50 hours for treatments A, B and C, respectively. Mean AUC(0-infinity), Cmax and t1/2 values following treatment B were not significantly different from those of treatment A. However, the mean AUC(0-infinity) and t1/2 values of cefprozil following treatment C were significantly greater than those of either treatment A or B. The mean Cmax value following treatment C was not significantly different than that of either treatments A or B. From these results, it was concluded that posture has no effect on the pharmacokinetics of cefprozil.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Review of in vitro activity, pharmacokinetic characteristics, safety, and clinical efficacy of cefprozil, a new oral cephalosporin

OBJECTIVE

To review the pharmacokinetics, microbiology, clinical efficacy, safety, and tolerance of cefprozil, a new, broad-spectrum oral cephalosporin.

DATA SOURCES

Published clinical trials and microbiologic, pharmacokinetic, and safety data were identified by MEDLINE; additional references were derived from bibliographies of these articles; microbiologic data on file were provided by Bristol-Myers Squibb.

STUDY SELECTION

Only published comparative clinical trial reports are included in the review of clinical efficacy. Noncomparative clinical data pertaining to uses of cefprozil not approved by the Food and Drug Administration are not included.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Data are presented on the in vitro microbiologic activity of cefprozil against 10,152 bacterial isolates, including most of the clinically important streptococci (e.g., Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae), beta-lactamase-positive and -negative Staphylococcus aureus and Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Clostridium difficile, and numerous other gram-negative aerobes and anaerobes. In clinical trials, cefprozil appears to be at least as effective as commonly used comparison agents such as cefaclor, cefixime, and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid. Additionally, cefprozil is better tolerated than the latter two agents, especially with regard to gastrointestinal adverse effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Cefprozil is a broad-spectrum cephalosporin that provides coverage against both gram-negative and -positive bacteria that may cause otitis media, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, skin and skin-structure infections, secondary bacterial infection of acute bronchitis, and acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis. The beta-lactamase stability of cefprozil appears to exceed that of other oral cephalosporins for some important pathogens. Cefprozil is used primarily for second-line treatment as less-expensive, first-line generic alternatives generally are available. Cefprozil demonstrates clinical advantages over many other orally administered beta-lactam antibiotics in terms of antimicrobial spectrum, a once- or twice-daily dosing regimen, and/or reduced incidence of adverse effects.

Adverse effects of newer cephalosporins. An update

While classifications into generations according to antimicrobial activity has helped clinicians incorporate the increasing number of cephalosporins into their pharmacological repertoire, adverse effects among the different agents fail to follow similar categories. In general, cephalosporins are fairly well tolerated antibiotics, and toxicity has been limited to specific agents. Subtle differences in chemical structure and pharmacokinetics can influence the potential for adverse effects. The route of administration may result in minor adverse reactions, including thrombophlebitis and pain. The most common adverse effects of cephalosporins are allergic reactions, occurring in 0.9 to 3.2% of patients. Cephalosporins have very rarely been associated with haematological toxicity (less than 1% of patients), but specific agents have been associated with neutropenia, hypoprothrombinaemia, haemolytic anaemia, and problems with platelet production and function. Other reactions include localised gastrointestinal disturbances, hepatotoxicity (e.g. biliary sludging), nephrotoxicity and mild central nervous system effects. The cephalosporins are generally well tolerated in the paediatric population. Very few interactions have been observed between cephalosporins and other drugs, largely because cephalosporins do not affect the microsomal P450 hepatic enzyme system. While cephalosporins are considered to be relatively 'safe' drugs, the introduction of newer members warrants continued careful observation for reporting of adverse drug reactions.

Cefprozil. A review of its antibacterial activity, pharmacokinetic properties, and therapeutic potential

Cefprozil is an orally active cephalosporin which has demonstrated activity against a wide range of organisms in vitro. It is particularly active against the Gram-positive organisms Streptococcus pyogenes, pneumoniae and agalactiae and against methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus. Strains of methicillin-resistant S. aureus are not susceptible to cefprozil. Cefprozil is also moderately active against Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, many Enterobacteriaceae and certain anaerobic organisms, and is relatively stable to hydrolysis by a number of beta-lactamases. In comparative trials, the clinical and bacteriological efficacy of cefprozil 500mg or 20 mg/kg administered once or twice daily has been comparable with multiple daily dosage regimens of erythromycin in patients with tonsillitis or pharyngitis, with cefaclor and amoxicillin/clavulanate in lower respiratory tract infections, with amoxicillin/clavulanate and erythromycin in skin and skin-structure infections and with cefaclor in acute uncomplicated urinary tract infections. The clinical efficacy of cefprozil is similar to that of cefaclor in patients with tonsillitis or pharyngitis but the bacteriological efficacy of cefprozil is significantly greater than that of cefaclor. Cefprozil is clinically more effective than cefuroxime axetil in the treatment of lower respiratory tract infections and demonstrated greater efficacy than cefaclor in one of 2 comparative studies when administered twice daily in patients with skin and skin-structure infections. In children with acute otitis media, cefprozil 15 mg/kg twice daily was as effective as cefaclor or amoxicillin/clavulanate 13.3 mg/kg 3 times daily and was as effective as cefixime 8 mg/kg once daily. The most frequently reported adverse effects associated with cefprozil, diarrhoea and nausea, are usually mild to moderate in severity and discontinuation of treatment is rarely necessary. Thus, cefprozil with its convenient administration regimen appears to be a suitable alternative to cefaclor, cefixime, amoxicillin/clavulanate or erythromycin for the treatment of upper and lower respiratory tract infections, skin and skin-structure infections, and otitis media in children. While cefprozil has shown similar efficacy to cefaclor in the treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infections, well-controlled clinical trials comparing its efficacy with that of cotrimoxazole (trimethoprim+sulfamethoxazole) in this indication are required.

Oral absolute bioavailability and intravenous dose-proportionality of cefprozil in humans

The absolute bioavailability (F) and dose proportionality of cefprozil were investigated in a parallel design study with an embedded two-way crossover leg. Twenty-four healthy male subjects divided into 3 dosing groups received a single 250-, 500-, or 1000-mg dose of cefprozil by a 30-minute intravenous infusion. Subjects assigned to the 500-mg dose group also received a 500-mg oral dose of cefprozil in crossover manner with a wash-out period of 7 days between each treatment. Cefprozil consists of cis and trans isomers in an approximate 90:10 ratio. Serial blood and urine samples were collected and analyzed for the concentrations of the cis and trans isomers of the cephalosporin using high-pressure liquid chromatographic assay with UV detection methods. After the 250-, 500-, and 1000-mg intravenous administration of cefprozil, the peak concentrations were 13.2, 26.0, and 48.5 micrograms/mL, and area under the plasma concentration versus time profiles were 17.2, 31.4, and 58.1 micrograms.hour/mL, respectively, for the cis isomer increasing in a dose proportional manner. Total body clearance, renal clearance, and volume of distribution at steady state, adjusted for body weight, were not significantly different among all groups. Mean residence time, elimination half-life, and urinary recovery were invariant with the dose. Based on the plasma and urine data, the estimates of F were 89% and 94% for the cis isomer, respectively. The plasma concentrations of the trans isomer were about 1/10th of the cis isomer, and all parameters were similar to those observed for the cis isomer. In summary, cefprozil exhibits linear pharmacokinetics and is essentially completely absorbed after oral administration.

Pharmacokinetic interactions of cefprozil with food, propantheline, metoclopramide, and probenecid in healthy volunteers

Cefprozil, a new oral cephalosporin antibiotic, is composed of cis and trans isomers in an approximate 90:10 ratio. The objectives of this study were: (1) to assess the effects of alterations in gastrointestinal motility by metoclopramide and propantheline on the pharmacokinetics of cis and trans isomers of cefprozil, and to compare them with the effects of food on the pharmacokinetics of cefprozil; (2) to assess the effects of inhibition of renal tubular secretion by probenecid on the pharmacokinetics of cefprozil isomers. In this four-way crossover study, 15 healthy male volunteers received a 1000-mg dose of cefprozil after fasting, pretreatment with metoclopramide or propantheline, after breakfast, or after probenecid in an incomplete, balanced block design. There was a 1-week washout period between each treatment. Blood and urine samples collected over a 24-hour period were assayed for the cis and trans isomers. The concentrations of the trans isomers were generally 1/10 of the cis isomer. The means and variances of the pharmacokinetic parameters of the cis and trans isomers of cefprozil were similar in fasting subjects and were affected in a parallel manner by food, metoclopramide, propantheline, and probenecid. The pharmacokinetics of the cis isomer under the fasting condition were as follows: maximum peak plasma concentration (Cmax), 14.0 +/- 2.7 micrograms/mL; median time to reach Cmax (tmax), 1.5 (range, 1.0-3.5) hours; half-life (t1/2), 1.24 +/- 0.27 hours; area under the concentration (AUC0-infinity), 47.3 +/- 7.7 micrograms.hour/mL; mean residence time after oral administration (MRTpo), 2.9 +/- 0.4 hours; CLR, 219 +/- 60 mL/minute; and Xu% (percent cumulative urinary excretion in 0-24 hours), 68.1 +/- 12.5.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Effect of antacid on the bioavailability of cefprozil

The effect of antacid on the bioavailability of cefprozil was investigated in a two-way crossover study. Eight healthy male subjects received a single 500-mg oral dose of cefprozil with and without coadministration of 30 ml of an antacid suspension containing magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide (Maalox). Cefprozil consists of cis and trans isomers in an approximate 90:10 ratio. When cefprozil was administered alone (treatment A), the mean maximum concentrations (Cmax) of the cis and trans isomers were 9.2 and 1.2 micrograms/ml, respectively. When cefprozil was coadministered with Maalox (treatment B), the Cmax values of the cis and trans isomers were 8.7 and 1.3 micrograms/ml, respectively. The mean values of the area under the curve from time zero to infinity (AUC0-infinity) were 27.7 and 3.5 micrograms.h/ml for treatment A and 27.5 and 3.5 micrograms.h/ml for treatment B for the cis and trans isomers, respectively. The other pharmacokinetic parameters, time to Cmax, elimination half-life, mean residence time, renal clearance, and percent urinary excretion, were essentially the same for the two isomers. The respective values of the elimination half-life for the cis and trans isomers were 1.36 and 1.32 h for treatment A and 1.36 and 1.42 h for treatment B. Mean urinary excretion was 63 and 60% for treatment A and 58 and 56% for treatment B for the cis and trans isomers, respectively. No significant differences between the two treatments were found for any of the pharmacokinetic parameters for either isomer. For the cis isomer, bioavailability point estimates (90% confidence intervals) of the mean Cmax and AUG0-infinity values for the Maalox treatment relative to those for the reference treatment were 95% (87%, 103%) and 99% (95%, 104%), respectively. For the trans isomer, the value were 109% (92%, 126%) for Cmax and 97% (88%, 106%) for AUC0-infinity. On the basis of the results of this study, it is concluded that the bioavailability of cefprozil is not affected by the coadministration of Maalox.

Excretion of cefprozil into human breast milk

The excretion of cefprozil into breast milk in nine healthy, lactating female subjects was investigated. Each subject received a single 1,000-mg oral dose of cefprozil consisting of cis and trans isomers in an approximately 90:10 ratio. Serial blood, urine, and breast milk samples were collected and analyzed for the concentrations of the cis and trans isomers by a specific high-pressure liquid chromatography-UV assay. The mean pharmacokinetic parameters for both isomers were essentially the same. The mean peak concentrations in plasma for the cis isomer were 14.8 micrograms/ml, and the area under the concentration curve was 54.8 micrograms.h/ml. The mean values of elimination half-life, renal clearance, and urinary excretion for the cis isomer were 1.69 h, 164 ml/min, and 60%, respectively. The mean concentrations in milk of the cis isomer over a 24-h period ranged from 0.25 to 3.36 micrograms/ml, with the maximum concentration appearing at 6 h after dosing. The average maximum concentration in milk of the trans isomer was less than 0.26 micrograms/ml. The concentrations of the trans isomer in plasma and in breast milk were about 1/10 of those for the cis isomer. Less than 0.3% of the dose was excreted in breast milk for both isomers of cefprozil. Even if one assumes that the concentration of cefprozil in milk remains constant at 3.36 micrograms/ml (the highest concentration of cefprozil observed in breast milk), an infant ingesting an average of 800 ml of milk per day will be exposed to a maximum amount of about 3 mg of cefprozil per day. This value represents about 0.3% of the maternal dose. Low excretion of cefprozil in breast milk and the excellent safety profile of cefprozil suggest that this cephalosporin may be administered to nursing mothers when indicated.

Absolute bioavailability of cefprozil after oral administration in beagles

The absolute bioavailability of cefprozil, a new oral cephalosporin, in four beagles was evaluated. In this two-way crossover study, each dog received a 125-mg dose of cefprozil either as an oral aqueous solution or as a 15-min intravenous infusion. A high-performance liquid chromatographic assay with UV detection was employed for the determination of cefprozil concentrations in plasma and urine. Key pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated by noncompartmental methods. Cefprozil was well absorbed after oral administration, and peak concentrations of 17.6 to 26.6 micrograms/ml were attained at 60 min after drug administration. The apparent elimination half-life of cefprozil was about 70 min. The renal clearance was about 60% of total body clearance and is suggestive of significant nonrenal clearance. The absolute bioavailability of cefprozil ranged from 67.1 to 79.1% in the dogs.

Bactericidal titers of loracarbef (LY 163892) in serum and killing rates in volunteers receiving 400 versus 200 milligrams

In a randomized crossover trial, six volunteers received 200- and 400-mg doses of loracarbef (LY 163892), a new oral cephalosporin. Mean +/- standard error of the mean concentrations in serum obtained after 1.5 and 3 h were 13.2 +/- 2.8 and 4.3 +/- 0.7 mg/liter, respectively, after the 400-mg dose and 6.9 +/- 1.0 and 1.7 +/- 0.2 mg/liter, respectively, after the 200-mg dose. Bactericidal reciprocal titers measured against respiratory pathogens in serum suggested that loracarbef would be highly effective against Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes (median titers, 8 to 128 at 1.5 h and less than 2 to 32 at 3 h) and beta-lactamase-negative Haemophilus influenzae (median titers, 4 at 1.5 h and 2 to 4 at 3 h). Other species (Branhamella catarrhalis, Streptococcus anginosus, Staphylococcus aureus) were associated with lower bactericidal titers. Killing curves performed against 12 strains demonstrated that the bioactivity of loracarbef (measured by the reduction in the area under the control growth curve) was significantly correlated with the concentration/MIC ratio, whereas the initial rate of killing was not, once the concentration was greater than the MIC. Our results suggest that administration of 400 mg of loracarbef every 8 h might be associated with more favorable pharmacodynamic parameters against target bacteria.

Multiple-dose pharmacokinetics of cefprozil and its impact on intestinal flora of volunteers

The pharmacokinetics of cefprozil were determined with 12 volunteers (8 received cefprozil and 4 received a placebo) after oral administration of 500 mg every 12 h over an 8-day period in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design. Concentrations in serum and urine were measured by high-pressure liquid chromatography and bioassay. The pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated on the basis of an open one-compartment model. The mean maximum concentration in serum on day 1 was 11.5 +/- 2.6 mg/liter, and the time to reach maximum concentration was 122.3 +/- 30 min after administration. Bioavailability parameters (area under the concentration-time curve from zero to infinity, maximum concentration of the drug in serum, and urinary recovery) indicated an excellent absorption. No accumulation over the 8-day period was registered. Cefprozil had a short biological elimination half-life of 58 +/- 10 min and a renal clearance of 210 +/- 51 ml/min, indicating high rates of renal excretion and tubular secretion. Analysis of the fecal flora showed an ecological impact of cefprozil on the intestinal microflora, such as a moderate decrease in enterobacteria and a slight increase in enterococci, staphylococci, and bacteroides during the study. The number of all bacterial species was already normalized 4 days after the administration period. The tolerance of cefprozil proved to be excellent; only a slight and reversible increase of liver enzymes (in two volunteers), mild cephalalgia, tiredness, and soft stool were registered during the 8-day period. Cefprozil had excellent absorption, no accumulation over an 8-day period, and only a limited impact on the intestinal microflora.

Inability of cephalothin testing to predict cefprozil susceptibility

The 30-micrograms cefprozil disk and the cephalosporin class (30-micrograms cephalothin) disk were compared for their abilities to predict cefprozil susceptibility by agar disk diffusion testing. High error (5.02% major and 14.11% minor) rates were encountered with the cephalothin disk and were most frequently observed for Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis. The cefprozil disks resulted in rates of 0.05% very major, 0% major, and 3.72% minor errors. Thus, the 30-micrograms cefprozil disk is more desirable for predicting cefprozil susceptibility.

Comparison of cefprozil and cefaclor for treatment of acute urinary tract infections in women

A total of 108 college women with acute urinary tract infections were treated for 10 days with either 500 mg of cefprozil (BMY-28100-03-800) once a day (n = 72) or 250 mg of cefaclor three times a day (n = 36). Clinical and bacterial cure rates at 1 week posttherapy were 94 and 93%, respectively, for the cefprozil group and 94 and 94%, respectively, for the cefaclor group (P, not significant). Both cefprozil and cefaclor were safe and effective.

Simultaneous high-performance liquid chromatographic analysis of cefprozil diastereomers in a pharmacokinetic study

Cefprozil, a new oral cephalosporin, consists of a 90:10 cis:trans isomer mixture. Sensitive, specific and reproducible high performance liquid chromatographic methods have been developed for the simultaneous quantification of the two stereoisomers of cefprozil in plasma and urine samples from human and rats. Cephalexin acted as the internal standard. Plasma protein was precipitated with acetonitrile and trichloracetic acid with subsequent extraction of acetonitrile. After vortexing and centrifuging, the aqueous phase was injected onto a reverse phase C8 column. Urine samples were acidified with sodium acetate buffer (pH 3.8) and then directly injected onto a reverse phase C18 column. The detector was set at 280 nm. These methods were applied to determine protein binding of both isomers in human and rat sera, and to perform a pharmacokinetic study in human. Results showed that both isomers bound moderately to serum proteins with no interference by the other isomer. The pharmacokinetic study in human indicated that cefprozil was well absorbed and the cis and trans isomers have similar pharmacokinetics.

Comparative efficacy and safety of cefprozil (BMY-28100) and cefaclor in the treatment of acute group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal pharyngitis

Cefprozil (BMY-28100) is a semisynthetic cephalosporin with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity and prolonged serum elimination half-life allowing for once-a-day oral administration. In vitro, cefprozil demonstrates excellent activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis. Cefprozil (500 mg once daily) was compared to cefaclor (250 mg three times daily) in an open, randomized, comparative trial for the treatment of acute group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal pharyngitis. Ninety-four patients were enrolled in this study; 53 patients were evaluable for clinical and bacteriological response assessment. Seventy-eight patients were evaluable for safety assessment. Three patients (all in the cefprozil treatment group) required disenrollment because of side effects, mainly nausea. Clinical and bacteriological responses were comparable for both study drugs. Leukopenia and nausea, the most common side effects observed, were more common in the cefprozil-treated group. Cefprozil appears to be an appropriate alternative to cefaclor for the treatment of acute group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal pharyngitis. However, because of the small number of patients eligible for efficacy assessment, a large type II (beta) error was expected in our study, which may have resulted in a potential failure to detect a difference between both treatment groups. A larger study would be required to determine the proper role of cefprozil in the treatment of group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal infections.

Pharmacokinetics of cefprozil in healthy subjects and patients with hepatic impairment

The pharmacokinetics of cefprozil were studied in 12 (9 men, 3 women) subjects with hepatic impairment and in 12 healthy subjects who were matched for age, sex, and weight. Each subject received a single 1000 mg oral dose of cefprozil, which consists of cis and trans isomers in approximately a 90:10 ratio. Serial blood and urine samples were collected and analyzed using validated HPLC/UV methods for the concentration of each isomer. The results of the plasma and urine analyses were subjected to noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis. The values for the peak plasma concentrations (Cmax), area under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC0-infinity), apparent total body clearance (Clt/F), renal clearance (Clr), and percent of drug excreted in urine (%UR) of each isomer were not significantly different in healthy subjects and patients with hepatic impairment. The only parameters that were significantly (P less than or equal to .05) longer in patients with hepatic impairment were mean residence time in the body (MRT) and half-life; the MRT for the cis isomer in healthy subjects and subjects with hepatic impairment were 3.33 hr and 3.88 hr, respectively, and for the trans isomer 3.17 hr and 3.68 hr; the half-life for the cis isomer was 1.62 hr and 2.22 hr, respectively, and for the trans isomer 1.21 hr and 1.54 hr. The pharmacokinetics of the cis and trans isomers of cefprozil were virtually identical in healthy subjects as well as those with hepatic impairment.

Pharmacokinetics of cefprozil in healthy subjects and patients with renal impairment

Cefprozil, a new broad-spectrum oral cephalosporin, is composed of cis and trans isomers in an approximate 90:10 ratio. The pharmacokinetics of a single oral 1000-mg dose of cefprozil were evaluated in 6 healthy subjects and 24 patients with various degrees of renal impairment. Six of these subjects were studied both while receiving hemodialysis and during an interdialytic period. Plasma, urine, and hemodialysate that were collected at predetermined times were analyzed for concentrations of the cis and trans isomers of cefprozil using reverse-phase HPLC assay with UV detection. The maximum plasma concentration of the cis isomer ranged from 12.3 micrograms/mL in subjects with normal renal function to 36.7 micrograms/mL in hemodialysis patients. Similarly the area under the plasma concentration-time curve and the elimination half-life increased from 46 micrograms.h/mL to 373 micrograms.h/mL and from 1.72 hours to 5.94 hours, respectively. Renal clearance of the cis isomer decreased from 198 mL/min in normal subjects to 19 mL/min in volunteers with creatinine clearances of less than or equal to 30 mL/min; there was a strong correlation (r2 greater than or equal to .93) between the renal clearance of the cis isomer and creatinine clearance. Urinary recovery of the cis isomer decreased from 57% in those with normal renal function to 24% in the group with a creatinine clearance of less than or equal to 30 mL/min. Hemodialysis decreased the half-life of the cis isomer to 2 hours and removed approximately 55% of it from the body during a 3-hour dialysis period (hemodialysis clearance equaled approximately 87 mL/min). The pharmacokinetics of the trans isomer were similar to those observed for the cis isomer and were affected similarly by declining renal function. A reduction in dosage is recommended in patients with a creatinine clearance of 30 mL/min or less. It may be necessary to administer a dose after hemodialysis to maintain therapeutic plasma concentrations.

Pharmacokinetics of cefprozil in infants and children

Twenty pediatric patients (ages, between 8 months and 8 years) received a single oral dose of cefprozil at levels of 15 and 30 mg/kg of body weight. Cefprozil consists of cis (BMY-28100) and trans (BMY-28167) isomers in an approximately 90:10 ratio. Six plasma samples were collected from each pediatric patient and assayed for drug concentrations. As measured by a microbiological assay, peak concentrations of 11.16 and 15.93 micrograms of cefprozil per ml occurred at 1 h for patients who received the 15- and 30-mg/kg doses, respectively. The respective mean half-lives of cefprozil were 1.77 and 2.14 h, and the respective mean areas under the curve were 28.05 and 45.28 micrograms.h/ml for patients who received the 15- and 30-mg/kg doses. When measured by a high-pressure liquid chromatography method, peak concentrations of 12.09 and 18.04 micrograms of the cis isomer per ml were obtained at 1 h, with mean half-lives of 1.63 and 2.06 h and mean areas under the curve of 30.48 and 49.34 micrograms.h/ml in patients who received the 15- and 30-mg/kg doses, respectively. For the trans isomer, peak concentrations of 1.16 and 1.63 micrograms/ml occurred at 1 h, respectively, with mean half-lives of 1.61 and 1.65 h and mean areas under the curve of 2.89 and 4.34 micrograms.h/ml in patients who received the 15- and 30-mg/kg doses, respectively.

Comparison of the effects of food on the pharmacokinetics of cefprozil and cefaclor

The objective of this study was to assess the effects of food on the pharmacokinetics of cefprozil and cefaclor. A group of 12 healthy male volunteers received a single 250-mg dose of cefprozil or cefaclor under fasting conditions as well as after the intake of food. There was a 1-week washout period between each treatment. Serial blood samples were collected and assayed for cefprozil or cefaclor by specific high-pressure liquid chromatographic methods. The mean +/- standard deviation peak concentration (Cmax) of cefprozil in plasma was 6.13 +/- 1.22 micrograms/ml under the fasting condition and 5.27 +/- 1.06 micrograms/ml after breakfast, and these values were not significantly different from each other. The corresponding median time to reach Cmax was prolonged after food intake, but this difference was not significant. The mean Cmax values of cefaclor decreased significantly from 8.70 +/- 2.72 micrograms/ml under the fasting condition to 4.29 +/- 1.52 micrograms/ml after breakfast, and the corresponding median times to reach Cmax were significantly prolonged. The mean half-lives of cefprozil and cefaclor were nearly identical for the two treatments, suggesting that the elimination kinetics of these cephalosporins remained unaltered when the drugs were administered with food. The area under the plasma-concentration-versus-time curves for fasted and fed conditions were not significantly different for both drugs. The results of this study indicate that the extent of absorption and rate of elimination of both cephalosporins remain unaltered in the presence of food. However, the absorption rate of cefaclor is significantly reduced in the presence of food, while that of cefprozil remains unaltered. As a result, the Cmax of cefaclor is significantly reduced in the presence of food, whereas that of cefprozil is not significantly affected. Cefprozil can be administered with a meal without markedly affecting levels in blood.

Comparison of cefprozil and cefaclor pharmacokinetics and tissue penetration

The pharmacokinetics and tissue penetration, as judged by skin blister fluid, of cefprozil and cefaclor were examined in 12 healthy male volunteers. Doses of 250 and 500 mg of each drug were given to fasting subjects in a crossover fashion. Serially obtained plasma, skin blister fluid, and urine samples were analyzed for cefprozil or cefaclor by validated high-pressure liquid chromatographic methods. After oral administration of 250 and 500 mg of cefprozil, mean concentrations in plasma rose to peak levels (Cmax) of 6.1 and 11.2 micrograms/ml, respectively, and those of cefaclor were 10.6 and 17.3 micrograms/ml, respectively. The elimination half-life of cefprozil (1.3 h) was significantly longer than that of cefaclor (0.6 h), and as a result, the area under the curve for cefprozil was about two times greater than that for cefaclor. Both cephalosporins were primarily excreted unchanged in urine. The mean skin blister Cmax values were 3.0 and 5.8 micrograms/ml for cefprozil and 3.6 and 6.5 micrograms/ml for cefaclor after the 250- and 500-mg oral doses, respectively. The mean Cmax values in skin blister fluid for both cephalosporins were comparable and were significantly lower than the corresponding Cmax values in plasma. However, the levels of cefprozil and cefaclor in skin blister fluid declined more slowly than they did in plasma. The skin blister fluid half-life estimates for cefprozil were significantly longer than they were for cefaclor. Parallel to the observation in plasma, the mean skin blister fluid areas under the curve for cefprozil were significantly higher than they were for cefaclor. The plasma and skin blister fluid pharmacokinetic analyses suggest that the exposure of humans to cefprozil is significantly greater than that to cefaclor at the same dose.