Update on new oral cephalosporins

Abstract

Only cefprozil and cefpodoxime have been shown to be more effective than comparison agents, and they appear to better tolerated than amoxicillin-containing regimens. The potent Gram-negative activity of cefpodoxime is attractive for selective clinical situations (e.g., in place of a quinolone). However, it has not been tested for the treatment of serious Gram-negative infections. Either of these agents would appear to be preferable to cefaclor in terms of efficacy, safety, and cost. Usage patterns similar to that currently applicable to cefaclor should also be applied to the use of either of these drugs, as they should be reserved for patients who have not responded to first-line therapy or in penicillin-allergic patients who cannot tolerate erythromycin or trimethoprimsulfamethoxazole.