Penicillins, antipseudomonal

Question 1

What is it indicated for?

Answer 1

They are reserved for severe infections particularly where there is a broad spectrum of potential pathogens, if antibiotic resistance is likely or people who have immune suppression.

➊ Lower respiratory tract infection.

➋ Urinary tract infection.

➌ Intraabdominal infection.

➍ Skin and soft tissue infection.

Question 2

What is the spectrum of activity of these drugs?

Answer 2

Antipseudomonal penicillins (e.g. piperacillin) have a broad spectrum of activity against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

They are formulated with a beta-lactamase inhibitor e.g. tazobactam

Question 3

How do they work?

Answer 3

Penicillins inhibit enzymes responsible for cross-linking peptidoglycans.

Question 4

What are the side effects of these drugs?

Answer 4

GI upset
Less frequently antibiotic-associated colitis
Delayed or immediate hypersensitivity

Question 5

What are the warnings of these drugs?

Answer 5

Use in caution in people at risk of C.difficile infection

Penicillin allergy contraindicated

Dose reduced in moderate and severe renal impairment

Question 6

What interactions occur with this drug?

Answer 6

Reduce renal excretion of methotrexate

Can increase anticoagulant effect of warfarin

Question 7

What are the names of drugs in this class?

Answer 7

piperacillin with tazobactam (e.g. Tazocin®)