A randomized trial of cefepime (BMY-28142) and ceftazidime for the treatment of pneumonia.

Cefepime is a new cephalosporin with a broad antimicrobial spectrum that includes Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. To study the efficacy and safety of cefepime for treatment of pneumonia, 65 patients were randomized to therapy with either cefepime or ceftazidime at a two to one ratio. Of the 57 evaluable patients, 89% of the cefepime patients and 84% of the ceftazidime patients were cured clinically or improved. Haemophilus spp., Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Neisseria spp. were common pathogens. Bacteriological cure was achieved in 31 (91%) of cefepime patients and 17 (100%) ceftazidime patients. Adverse clinical and laboratory reactions possibly due to study drug occurred in 9 (21%) cefepime patients and in 1 (5%) ceftazidime patient. Most reactions were mild and resolved with discontinuation of study drug. In this study, cefepime appeared as effective as ceftazidime for the treatment of pneumonia.