Beta-lactams effective alternative for intra-abdominal infections

Beta-lactams are as effective as carbapenems in treating intra-abdominal infections revealed a study published in the Journal, Open Forum Infectious Diseases.

Intra-abdominal infection (IAI) describes a diverse set of diseases. It is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. It is the second most commonly identified cause of severe sepsis in the intensive care unit (ICU). IAI is broadly defined as peritoneal inflammation in response to microorganisms, resulting in purulence in the peritoneal cavity. IAI is classified as uncomplicated or complicated based on the extent of infection.

Complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAIs) result in substantial significant morbidity, mortality, and cost. Carbapenem-resistant sepsis has increased dramatically in the last decade, resulting in infections that are difficult to treat and associated with high mortality rates. The study aimed at comparing the effectiveness and safety of carbapenems versus alternative β-lactams monotherapy or in combination with the treatment of cIAIs.

In twenty-two studies involving 7720 participants, the authors found no difference between clinical outcomes of carbapenems and non-carbapenem β-lactams in cIAIs. Moreover, patients treated with imipenem were more likely to experience clinical or microbiological failure than those treated with alternative β-lactams monotherapy or in combination.

The authors found no differences in clinical treatment success, odds ratio, microbiological treatment success, adverse events (AEs) and mortality. Patients treated with imipenem were more likely to experience clinical or microbiological failure than those treated with alternative β-lactams monotherapy or in combination.

"No differences in clinical outcomes were observed between carbapenems and non-carbapenem β-lactams in cIAIs. Patients treated with imipenem were more likely to experience clinical or microbiological failure than those treated with alternative β-lactams monotherapy or in combination." the authors concluded.

For reference, follow the link

https://doi.org/10.1093/ofid/ofz394