Urinary Tract Infection, Females

INTRODUCTION ¡@

Background: This article addresses pyelonephritis and cystitis as they apply to adult females; pediatric infections are not covered. Nosocomial urinary tract infections (UTIs) and their main risk factor, indwelling urethral catheters, will be discussed, as well as infections in special hosts (patients with spinal injury, diabetes, transplants) and special conditions (candiduria, perirenal abscess). For issues relating to multidrug-resistant organisms (such as Acinetobacter) or particular organisms (gonorrhea, schistosomiasis), the reader should consult those particular articles. This article does not discuss urethritis, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in any detail.

UTIs may be referred to as cystitis or pyelonephritis, terms that refer to the lower and upper urinary tract, respectively. The terms bacteriuria and candiduria describe bacteria or yeast in the urine. Very ill patients may be referred to as having urosepsis.

The following terms are defined for uniformity in this article:

Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) refers to 2 consecutive urine cultures growing more than 100,000 colony-forming units (CFU) of a bacterial species in a patient lacking symptoms of a UTI.

Uropathogens are specific bacteria that have been clinically associated with invasion of the urinary tract.

Complicated UTIs are defined as UTIs that are associated with metabolic disorders, that occur at sites other than the urinary bladder, or that are secondary to anatomic or functional abnormalities that impair urinary tract drainage. Most complicated UTIs are nosocomial in origin. The most common pathogens include Escherichia coli, enterococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, candidal species, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Complicated UTIs may be subdivided into the following 4 categories:

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  1. Structural abnormalities - Calculi, infected cysts, renal/bladder abscesses, certain forms of pyelonephritis, spinal cord injury (SCI), catheters

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  2. Metabolic/hormonal abnormalities - Diabetes, pregnancy

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  3. Impaired host responses - Transplant recipients, patients with AIDS

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  4. Unusual pathogens - Yeast, etc

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Pathophysiology: In general, 3 main mechanisms are responsible for UTIs, including (1) colonization with ascending spread, (2) hematogenous spread, and (3) periurogenital spread of infection. Specific organism characteristics, defects in host defenses, and pathophysiologic details concerning particular UTIs now will be discussed.

Bacterial virulence

Uropathogenic bacteria, derived from a subset of fecal flora, have traits that enable adherence, growth, and resistance of host defenses, resulting in colonization and infection of the urinary tract.

Adhesins are bacterial surface structures that enable attachment to host membranes. In E coli infection, these include both pili (ie, fimbriae) and outer membrane proteins (eg, Dr hemagglutinin). P fimbriae, which attach to globoseries-type glycolipids found in the colon and urinary epithelium, are associated with pyelonephritis, cystitis, and also are found in many E coli strains causing urosepsis. Type 1 fimbriae bind to mannose-containing structures found in many different cell types, including the major protein found in human urine, Tamm-Horsfall protein. Whether this facilitates or inhibits uroepithelial colonization is the subject of some debate.

Other factors that may be important for E coli virulence in the urinary tract include capsular polysaccharides, hemolysins, cytotoxic necrotizing factor (CNF) protein, and aerobactins. Several Kauffman serogroups of E coli may be more likely to cause UTIs, including O1, O2, O4, O6, O16, and O18. Another example of bacterial virulence is the swarming capability of Proteus mirabilis. Swarming involves the expression of specific genes when these bacteria are exposed to surfaces such as catheters. This results in the coordinated movement of large numbers of bacteria, enabling P mirabilis to move across solid surfaces. This likely explains the association of P mirabilis UTIs with instrumentation of the urinary tract.

Host resistance

Most uropathogens gain access to the urinary tract via an ascending route. The shorter length of the female urethra allows uropathogens easier access to the bladder. The continuous unidirectional flow of urine helps to minimize UTIs, and anything that interferes with this increases the host's susceptibility to UTI. Examples of interference include volume depletion, sexual intercourse, urinary tract obstruction, instrumentation, use of catheters not drained to gravity, and vesicoureteral reflux.

Secretory defenses help to promote bacterial clearance and prevent adherence. Secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA) reduces attachment and invasion of bacteria in the urinary tract. Women who are nonsecretors of the ABH blood antigens appear to be at higher risk of recurrent UTIs; this may occur because of a lack of specific glycosyltransferases that modify epithelial surface glycolipids, allowing E coli to bind to them better.

Urine itself has several antibacterial features that suppress UTIs. Specifically, the pH, urea concentration, osmolarity, and various organic acids prevent most bacteria from surviving in the urinary tract.

Pathophysiologic details of complicated urinary tract infections

Pyelonephritis almost always is the result of bacteria migrating from the bladder to the renal parenchyma, which is enhanced by vesicourethral reflux. In uncomplicated pyelonephritis, the bacterial invasion and renal damage are limited to the pyelocalyceal-medullary region; in complicated pyelonephritis, all regions of the kidney may be affected. If the infection progresses, bacteria may invade the bloodstream, resulting in bacteremia.

Complicated pyelonephritis results from structural and functional abnormalities, urologic manipulations, or underlying disease. Complicated pyelonephritis includes pyelonephritis in men and pyelonephritis elderly people. Patients with diabetes may develop emphysematous or xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis and necrotizing papillitis.

Subclinical pyelonephritis should be considered in indigent people; pregnant women; people with diabetes; people with alcoholism; and patients with a history of pyelonephritis, renal transplant, UTI before age 12 years, and more than 3 UTIs in the past year.

Calculi related to UTIs most commonly occur in women with recurrent UTIs from Proteus, Pseudomonas, and Providencia species (see Picture 1); bacterial biofilms serve to assist struvite growth. Because magnesium ammonium phosphate is acid soluble, stone formation does not tend to occur with a urinary pH lower than 7.19. Increases in ammonia raise the pH and injure the uroepithelial glycosaminoglycan layer, contributing to bacterial adherence. Alkalinity also increases the amount of phosphate and carbonate available to bind calcium and magnesium.

Renal corticomedullary abscesses usually are associated with vesicoureteral reflux or urinary tract obstruction, and the usual organisms include E coli, Klebsiella species, and Proteus species. Clinical syndromes include acute focal bacterial nephritis, acute multifocal bacterial nephritis, emphysematous pyelonephritis, and xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis.

Acute focal bacterial nephritis is also known as acute lobar nephronia or focal pyelonephritis. This is an acute bacterial interstitial nephritis affecting a single renal lobe. Acute multifocal bacterial nephritis affects more than 1 lobe (see Picture 2). Emphysematous pyelonephritis is a severe, necrotizing form of acute multifocal bacterial nephritis. Retroperitoneal (ie, extraluminal) gas may be observed in the renal parenchyma and perirenal space on radiographs. This is observed most commonly in people with diabetes, but it also may be observed in patients with immunocompromise or obstruction.

Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis is a severe chronic infection of the renal parenchyma. The kidney is enlarged and is fixed to the retroperitoneum by either perirenal fibrosis or an extension of the granulomatous process. The inciting event appears to be renal obstruction and chronic UTI. Predisposing factors include renal calculi, lymphatic obstruction, renal ischemia, dyslipidemia, diabetes, and primary hyperparathyroidism.

A perinephric abscess is defined as a collection of purulent material between the renal capsule and Gerota fascia. A perinephric abscess may develop secondary to an intrarenal abscess, a renal cortical abscess, xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis, chronic or recurrent pyelonephritis, or from hematogenous dissemination. Predisposing factors are similar to those for intrarenal abscess. Approximately 25% of patients have diabetes.

Over time, patients with diabetes may develop cystopathy, nephropathy, and renal papillary necrosis, complications that predispose them to UTIs. Long-term effects of diabetic cystopathy include vesicourethral reflux and recurrent UTIs; as many as 30% of women with diabetes have some degree of cystocele, cystourethrocele, or rectocele.

Vaginal candidiasis and vascular disease also play a role in recurrent infections. Hyperglycemia causes neutrophil dysfunction by increasing intracellular calcium levels, interfering with actin and, thus, diapedesis and phagocytosis.

Renal cortical abscesses (ie, renal carbuncles) usually result from hematogenous spread of bacteria. Primary sources of infection include skin infections, osteomyelitis, and endovascular infections. These are observed commonly in users of injection drug, people with diabetes, and patients on dialysis. The most common organism isolated is Staphylococcus aureus. Ten percent of cortical abscesses may rupture through the renal capsule and form a perinephric abscess.

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease can lead to end-stage renal disease. Cysts may become infected from either bacteremia or from bacteriuria.

Several factors increase the risk of UTI in pregnancy. These factors include relative obstruction of the ureters (secondary to the enlarging uterus), smooth muscle relaxation of the ureter and bladder (secondary to progesterone), and aminoaciduria and glycosuria, which provide a favorable environment for bacteria to grow. E coli is the most common organism isolated from cultures, although P mirabilis and K pneumoniae also are observed. Less common agents include group B streptococci and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. Group B streptococci are isolated in approximately 5% of infections and have been linked to preterm labor; these patients should receive prophylactic antibiotics during delivery to reduce the risk of neonatal sepsis.

Risk factors for candiduria include diabetes mellitus, indwelling urinary catheters, and antibiotic use. Candiduria may clear spontaneously or may result in (or from) deep fungal infections. The presence of Candida species in the urine usually represents colonization and not infection, and, as such, not all patients with candiduria require treatment. A lower threshold for initiating treatment exists for patients with diabetes, history of renal transplantation, or genitourinary abnormalities.

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Frequency:
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Mortality/Morbidity:

Race: No racial predilection exists.

Sex: Uncomplicated UTIs are much more common among women than men when matched for age. A study of Norwegian men aged 21-50 years showed an approximate incidence of 0.0006-0.0008 infections per person-year, compared with approximately 0.5-0.7 per person-year in similarly aged women in the United States.

Age: The incidence of UTI in women tends to increase with increasing age. Several peaks above baseline correspond with specific events, including an increase among women aged 18-30 years (associated with honeymoon cystitis and pregnancy). Older adults have is a higher incidence of renal corticomedullary abscesses. This article does not discuss UTIs in children.

CLINICAL ¡@

History:

Physical:

Causes: E coli causes 70-95% of both upper and lower UTIs. The remainder of infections is composed of various organisms, including S saprophyticus, Proteus species, Klebsiella species, Enterococcus faecalis, other Enterobacteriaceae, and yeast. Some species are more common in certain subgroups, such as S saprophyticus in young women.

DIFFERENTIALS ¡@

Appendicitis
Behcet Disease
Bladder Cancer
Bladder Stones
Bladder Trauma
Chlamydial Genitourinary Infections
Cholangitis
Cholecystitis
Colovesical Fistula
Common Pregnancy Complaints and Questions
Cystitis, Nonbacterial
Diverticulitis
Emphysema
Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
Enterobacter Infections
Enterococcal Infections
Escherichia Coli Infections
Gardnerella
Gastroenteritis, Bacterial
Glomerulonephritis, Acute
Gonococcal Infections
Herpes Simplex
Interstitial Cystitis
Klebsiella Infections
Mycoplasma Infections
Nephrolithiasis
Nephrolithiasis: Acute Renal Colic
Pancreatitis, Acute
Pneumonia, Bacterial
Pneumonia, Community-Acquired
Proteus Infections
Providencia Infections
Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Infections
Pyelolithotomy
Pyelonephritis, Acute
Pyelonephritis, Chronic
Pyonephrosis
Renal Cell Carcinoma
Renal Corticomedullary Abscess
Renal Transplantation (Medical)
Renal Transplantation (Urology)
Schistosomiasis
Sepsis, Bacterial
Septic Shock
Serratia
Shock and Pregnancy
Shock, Distributive
Subacute Thyroiditis
Trichomoniasis
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis of the Genitourinary System
Ureaplasma Infection
Ureteral Injury During Gynecologic Surgery
Ureteral Stricture
Ureteral Trauma
Ureterocele
Ureterolithotomy
Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction
Ureteroscopy
Urethral Prolapse
Urethral Syndrome
Urethritis
Urinary Diversions and Neobladders
Urinary Tract Infection, Females
Urinary Tract Infections in Pregnancy
Urinary Tract Obstruction
[Urologic Imaging without X-rays: Ultrasound, MRI, and Nuclear Medicine]

Urothelial Tumors of the Renal Pelvis and Ureters
Vaginitis
Vesicoureteral Reflux
Vesicovaginal Fistula
Vesicovaginal and Ureterovaginal Fistula
Xanthogranulomatous Pyelonephritis
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Other Problems to be Considered:

Consider any condition involving flank/back pain or abdominal/pelvic pain.

The differential diagnosis for infectious causes of sterile pyuria includes perinephric abscess, urethral syndrome, renal TB, and fungal infections of the urinary tract system.

Noninfectious causes of pyuria include uric acid and hypercalcemic nephropathy, lithium and heavy metal toxicity, sarcoidosis, interstitial cystitis, polycystic kidney disease, genitourinary malignancy, and renal transplant rejection.

WORKUP ¡@

Lab Studies:
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Imaging Studies:
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Procedures:
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TREATMENT ¡@

Medical Care: For adult women with acute bacterial cystitis who are otherwise healthy and not pregnant, single-dose therapy generally is less effective than a longer duration of the same antimicrobial agent. Most antimicrobial agents administered for 3 days are as effective as the same drug administered for a longer duration, with exceptions being nitrofurantoin and beta-lactams as a group.

TMP-SMZ for 3 days is considered the current standard therapy for bacterial cystitis. TMP-SMZ works as well as fluoroquinolones, which are more expensive. In 1999, to postpone the emergence of quinolone resistance, IDSA guidelines for UTI did not recommend quinolones as initial empiric therapy, except in communities with high rates (ie, over 10-20%) of uropathogen resistance to TMP-SMZ. Quinolones should be used for patients with known TMP-SMZ allergies, known TMP-SMZ¡Vresistant pathogens, or those failing a TMP-SMZ regimen.

Drug selection could be facilitated if resistance patterns among uropathogens could be predicted clinically. Studies have compared women with UTI caused by TMP-resistant bacteria with women with TMP-sensitive isolates. After multivariate analysis, the strongest risk factor was current or recent use of TMP-SMZ; current use of any antibiotic, estrogen exposure, diabetes, and recent hospitalization also were significant. Rates of fecal colonization with TMP-SMZ¡Vresistant E coli are increased in those who have recently been to Mexico, children in daycare centers, and in family members of those recently treated for a UTI.

Surgical Care:

Consultations: A pharmacokinetics consultation is suggested when using aminoglycosides or vancomycin. Urologic consultation is essential in patients with complicated UTIs. Other consultations depend on the patient's underlying state of health and may include an obstetrician, gynecologist, endocrinologist, nephrologist, neurologist, and neurosurgeon. Infectious disease input is essential for unusual or resistant pathogens or hosts who are immunocompromised. Consultation with the patient's primary care provider is suggested.

Diet:

Activity: Please see Deterrence/Prevention for a discussion on sexual activities and recurrent UTIs in women.

MEDICATION ¡@

The goals of pharmacotherapy are to eradicate the infection, reduce morbidity, and prevent complications.
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Drug Category: Antibiotics -- Empiric antimicrobial therapy should cover all likely pathogens in the context of this clinical setting. The prolonged or repeated use of antibiotics may result in fungal or bacterial overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms, superinfections, or infections with C difficile.

Antibiotics sometimes are used in combination. Sometimes these combinations work against each other (ie, are antagonistic); examples would include beta-lactams (such as penicillin) and tetracyclines. Antagonism is defined as at least a 99% decrease in killing by the combination (when compared with the most active antimicrobial alone).

Synergism is when a combination of antibiotics has a significantly greater effect than would be expected from the sum of the separate drugs (ie, over a 99% increase in killing). Aminoglycosides and either beta-lactams or vancomycin are considered synergistic combinations. Because no single drug is considered bactericidal for the enterococcus, some might prefer to use synergistic combinations when treating enterococcal UTIs.

The techniques used to generate data regarding synergy and antagonism are laborious and should generally be performed only in a research laboratory.

Drug Name
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Trimethoprim (Proloprim, Trimpex) -- Inhibits bacterial growth by inhibiting synthesis of dihydrofolic acid. Active in vitro against a broad range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including uropathogens, such as Enterobacteriaceae and S saprophyticus. Resistance usually is mediated by decreased cell permeability or alterations in the amount or structure of dihydrofolate reductase. Demonstrates synergy with the sulfonamides, potentiating the inhibition of bacterial tetrahydrofolate production.
Adult Dose 100-200 mg PO q12h
Pediatric Dose Not established
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity
Interactions Increases effect of phenytoin and rifampin; impairs excretion of creatinine (when present with cyclosporine) and methotrexate
Pregnancy C - Safety for use during pregnancy has not been established.
Precautions Discontinue at first appearance of skin rash or sign of adverse reaction; monitor CBCs; discontinue therapy if significant hematologic changes occur; high doses may cause bone marrow depression (if signs occur, administer 5-15 mg/d leucovorin); caution in folate deficiency (eg, patients with long-term alcoholism, elderly people, those receiving anticonvulsant therapy, those with malabsorption syndrome); hemolysis may occur in individuals who are G-6-PD deficient; caution in renal or hepatic impairment (perform urinalysis and renal function tests during therapy); administer fluids to prevent crystalluria and stone formation; adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, hypersensitivity reactions with morbilliform rash (especially in patients with AIDS), and diarrhea; less common adverse effects include marrow suppression, renal dysfunction, hepatitis, and aseptic meningitis
Drug Name
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Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Bactrim DS, Septra, Septra DS, Cotrim) -- TMP-SMZ has been given an "A, I" rating in the 1999 IDSA guidelines for treating UTIs. Combination antimicrobial designed to take advantage of the synergy between TMP and sulfonamides. Inhibits dihydropteroate synthetase, preventing the incorporation of para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) into dihydrofolate and subsequent synthesis of tetrahydrofolate. TMP-SMZ activity includes common urinary tract pathogens, both aerobic gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, except P aeruginosa.
Adult Dose Traditional dosing: 160 mg TMP/800 mg SMZ PO q12h for 10-14 d
Parenteral dose: 4-5 mg/kg TMP with 20-25 mg/kg SMZ q12h
Dosage adjustment is recommended for impaired CrCl (<30 mL/min)
Pediatric Dose 8-12 mg/kg TMP component, divided bid
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity; megaloblastic anemia due to folate deficiency; risk/benefit assessment should be considered in patients with G6PD deficiency, blood dyscrasias, folate deficiency, porphyria, hepatic or renal impairment
Interactions May increase PT when used with warfarin (perform coagulation tests and adjust dose accordingly); coadministration with dapsone may increase blood levels of both drugs; coadministration of diuretics increases incidence of thrombocytopenia purpura in elderly persons; phenytoin levels may increase with coadministration; may potentiate effects of methotrexate in bone marrow depression; coadministration with sulfonylureas may increase hypoglycemic response to sulfonylureas
Pregnancy C - Safety for use during pregnancy has not been established.
Precautions Discontinue at first appearance of skin rash or sign of adverse reaction; monitor CBCs; discontinue therapy if significant hematologic changes occur; goiter, diuresis, and hypoglycemia may occur with sulfonamides; prolonged IV infusions or high doses may cause bone marrow depression (if signs occur, administer 5-15 mg/d leucovorin); caution in folate deficiency (eg, people with long-term alcoholism, elderly people, those receiving anticonvulsant therapy, those with malabsorption syndrome); hemolysis may occur in individuals who are G-6-PD deficient; patients with AIDS may not tolerate or respond to TMP/SMZ; caution in renal or hepatic impairment (perform urinalyses and renal function tests during therapy); administer fluids to prevent crystalluria and stone formation
Drug Name
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Ampicillin (Omnipen, Principen, Totacillin, Polycillin) -- Impairs cell wall synthesis in actively dividing bacteria; binds to and inhibits penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs).
Activity against anaerobes and gram-negative aerobes. Generally used in combination with an aminoglycoside for empiric or directed activity against E faecalis.
Beta-lactams, in general, have been given an "E, I" rating in the 1999 IDSA guidelines for treating UTIs. Beta-lactams are less effective because they are excreted rapidly in the urine and do little to alter the GI/GU reservoir of bacteria.
Adult Dose Ampicillin trihydrate: 500 mg PO q6h
Ampicillin: 150-200 mg/kg IV divided q4-6h (approximately 1g q6h)
Pediatric Dose <28 days: Not recommended
>28 days: 50 mg/kg PO/IV q6h
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity
Interactions Decreased bioavailability of atenolol; altered response to coumarin derivatives; probenecid and disulfiram elevate ampicillin levels; allopurinol decreases ampicillin effects and has additive effects on ampicillin rash; may decrease effects of oral contraceptives
Pregnancy B - Usually safe but benefits must outweigh the risks.
Precautions Adjust dose in renal failure; avoid use in known infectious mononucleosis because a maculopapular rash will occur in >95% of cases and may be confused with hypersensitivity; not to be used alone for the treatment of UTIs because resistance is common; if used for cystitis, 7 d (not 3) must be prescribed
Drug Name
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Amoxicillin (Trimox, Amoxil, Biomox) -- Interferes with synthesis of cell wall mucopeptides during active multiplication, resulting in bactericidal activity against susceptible bacteria.
Adult Dose 250-500 mg PO q8h; not to exceed 3 g/d
Pediatric Dose 20-50 mg/kg/d PO divided q8h
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity
Interactions Reduces the efficacy of oral contraceptives
Pregnancy B - Usually safe but benefits must outweigh the risks.
Precautions Adjust dose in renal impairment; may enhance chance of candidiasis
Drug Name
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Gentamicin (Garamycin, Gentacidin) -- Bactericidal aminoglycoside antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis. Activity against various aerobic gram-negative bacteria, as well as E faecalis and staphylococcal species. Most commonly used with or without ampicillin to treat acute pyelonephritis in the hospitalized patient when Enterococcus species are a concern. Only aminoglycoside with appreciable activity against gram-positive organisms.
Requires dosing adjustment based on CrCl; IBW should be used for the calculation (the drug is not fat soluble). Trough serum levels should be monitored to ensure adequate clearance and reduce toxicity (<2 mcg/mL). Peak levels should also be monitored (may draw 0.5 h after 30-min infusion) after 4-5 half-lives when dosed more than once daily (levels should not exceed 12 mcg/mL for prolonged periods).
Daily dosing is not appropriate for treating gram-positive infections because the drug exhibits no appreciable postantibiotic effect with these organisms.
Adult Dose 3-5 mg/kg IV qd
1 mg/kg IV q8h
Pediatric Dose <28 days: Not recommended
>28 days: 2.5 mg/kg IV q8h
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity; non–dialysis-dependent renal insufficiency
Interactions Coadministration with other aminoglycosides, cephalosporins, penicillins, and amphotericin B may increase nephrotoxicity; aminoglycosides enhance effects of neuromuscular blocking agents, thus prolonged respiratory depression may occur; coadministration with loop diuretics may increase auditory toxicity of aminoglycosides; irreversible CN 8 dysfunction may occur (monitoring may minimize)
Pregnancy C - Safety for use during pregnancy has not been established.
Precautions Narrow therapeutic index (not intended for long-term therapy); caution in renal failure (not on dialysis), myasthenia gravis, hypocalcemia, and conditions that depress neuromuscular transmission; adjust dose in renal impairment
Drug Name
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Cefixime (Suprax) -- Third-generation oral cephalosporin with broad activity against gram-negative bacteria, including Enterobacteriaceae, by inhibiting cell wall synthesis. Has shown poor activity against staphylococcal and enterococcal species. Cefixime compared favorably to a quinolone in one study.
Adult Dose 400 mg PO qd
Pediatric Dose 8 mg/kg PO qd
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity
Interactions Coadministration of aminoglycosides increases nephrotoxicity; probenecid may increase effects of cefixime; may decrease effectiveness of oral contraceptives
Pregnancy B - Usually safe but benefits must outweigh the risks.
Precautions Adjust dose in severe renal insufficiency (high doses may cause CNS toxicity); superinfections, and promotion of nonsusceptible organisms may occur with prolonged use or repeated therapy; may increase risk for C difficile infection; expensive but tolerated well by patients
Drug Name
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Cefpodoxime proxetil (Vantin) -- Extended-spectrum oral cephalosporin with bactericidal activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including S aureus (not MRSA) and S saprophyticus. Active agent in vivo is cefpodoxime. Beta-lactams, in general, have been given an "E, I" rating in the 1999 IDSA guidelines for treating UTIs.
Adult Dose Acute cystitis: 100 mg PO q12h
Acute pyelonephritis: 200 mg PO q12h
Pediatric Dose 10 mg/kg PO divided bid; not to exceed 400 mg/d
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity
Interactions Decreased effect with antacids and H2-receptor antagonists; increased effect with probenecid
Pregnancy B - Usually safe but benefits must outweigh the risks.
Precautions Adjust dose in severe renal insufficiency (high doses may cause CNS toxicity); superinfections and promotion of nonsusceptible organisms may occur with prolonged use or repeated therapy
Drug Name
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Nitrofurantoin (Furadantin, Macrobid, Macrodantin) -- Synthetic nitrofuran that interferes with bacterial carbohydrate metabolism by inhibiting acetylcoenzyme A. Bacteriostatic at low concentrations (5-10 mcg/mL) and bactericidal at higher concentrations. Bactericidal against uropathogens such as S saprophyticus, E faecalis, and E coli; possesses no activity against Proteus, Serratia, or Pseudomonas species. Received a "B, I" rating in the 1999 IDSA guidelines for treating UTIs. Manufactured in different forms to facilitate durable urine concentrations: macrocrystals (Macrodantin), microcrystal suspension (Furadantin), and a combined preparation (Macrobid). Achieves no appreciable concentrations in the prostate, kidney, or blood.
Adult Dose Nitrofurantoin monohydrate/macrocrystals (Macrobid): 100 mg PO bid
Nitrofurantoin macrocrystals (Macrodantin): 50-100 mg PO qid
Pediatric Dose Not established
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity; renal insufficiency (<60 mL/min CrCl); anuria or oliguria; at term in pregnant women due to risk of acute hemolysis in newborn with G-6-PD deficiency (it can displace bilirubin)
Interactions Anticholinergics may delay gastric emptying and increase absorption, increasing bioavailability; antacids made of magnesium salts may decrease absorption; high doses of probenecid concurrently with nitrofurantoin decreases renal clearance; may decrease efficacy of quinolones
Pregnancy B - Usually safe but benefits must outweigh the risks.
Precautions Nitrofurantoin may cause severe and irreversible peripheral neuropathy; renal impairment, diabetes, electrolyte imbalance, anemia, and vitamin B deficiency increase risk for adverse effects; pulmonary hypersensitivity syndromes (ie, acute, subacute, chronic) can occur and are more common in patients who have been sensitized to nitrofurantoin through prior use; acute reactions (eg, fever, dyspnea, eosinophilia, pulmonary infiltrates) usually occur in the first 12 h in sensitized patients or within 3 wk in newly exposed patients; subacute reactions occur after longer exposures (>1 mo), and chronic reactions occur after 6 mo; reactions usually resolve after discontinuation of the drug; treatment with steroids may be useful; chronic syndrome may result in permanent pulmonary dysfunction
Drug Name
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Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) -- Quinolone. Antimicrobial activity based on ability to inhibit bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerases, which are required for replication, transcription, and translation of genetic material. Quinolones have broad activity against gram-positive and gram-negative aerobic organisms. Differences in chemical structure between quinolones have resulted in altered levels of activity against different bacteria. Ciprofloxacin has greatest antimicrobial activity against P aeruginosa. Altered chemistry structures result in toxicity differences as well. Quinolones have been given an "A, I" or "A, II" rating in the 1999 IDSA guidelines for treating UTIs.
Adult Dose Cystitis:
250 mg PO bid
Pyelonephritis:
500-750 mg PO bid
200-400 mg IV q12h
Pediatric Dose <18 years: Not recommended
>18 years: Administer as in adults
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity
Interactions Antacids, iron salts, and zinc salts may reduce oral absorption; administer antacids 2-4 h before or after taking fluoroquinolones; cimetidine may interfere with metabolism of fluoroquinolones; quinolones may reduce therapeutic effects of phenytoin; probenecid may increase serum concentrations of quinolones; ciprofloxacin may increase toxicity of theophylline, caffeine, cyclosporine, and digoxin (monitor levels); may increase effects of anticoagulants (monitor PT)
Pregnancy C - Safety for use during pregnancy has not been established.
Precautions Associated with a variety of CNS manifestations such as hallucinations and seizures; factors that increase risk of adverse effects should be noted when considering use; IV solution of ciprofloxacin should be administered by slow infusion over 60 min to reduce risk of phlebitis
Drug Name
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Fosfomycin (Monurol) -- Given a "B, I" rating in the 1999 IDSA guidelines for treating UTIs. Phosphonic acid is a bactericidal agent, active against most UTI pathogens, including E coli and Enterobacter, Klebsiella, and Enterococcus species. Little cross-resistance between fosfomycin and other antibacterial agents exists. Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine, and concentrations remain high for 24-48 h after a single dose. It is unique, but quite expensive.
Adult Dose 3 g PO in 4 oz of water as a single dose
Pediatric Dose Not established
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity
Interactions Food and antacids decrease absorption
Pregnancy B - Usually safe but benefits must outweigh the risks.
Precautions Adverse effects include diarrhea, vaginitis, and nausea
Drug Name
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Ofloxacin (Floxin) -- Quinolone. Antimicrobial activity based on ability to inhibit bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerases, which are required for replication, transcription, and translation of genetic material. Quinolones have broad activity against gram-positive and gram-negative aerobic organisms. Differences in chemical structure between quinolones have resulted in altered levels of activity against different bacteria. Altered chemical structure results in toxicity differences as well. Quinolones have been given an "A, I" or "A, II" rating in the 1999 IDSA guidelines for treating UTIs.
Adult Dose 200-400 mg PO bid
200-400 mg IV q12h
Pediatric Dose <18 years: Not recommended
>18 years: Administer as in adults
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity
Interactions Antacids, iron salts, and zinc salts may reduce oral absorption; administer antacids 2-4 h before or after taking fluoroquinolones; cimetidine may interfere with metabolism of fluoroquinolones; quinolones may reduce therapeutic effects of phenytoin; probenecid may increase serum concentrations of quinolones; may increase toxicity of caffeine, cyclosporine, and digoxin (monitor levels); may increase effects of anticoagulants (monitor PT)
Pregnancy C - Safety for use during pregnancy has not been established.
Precautions Quinolones increase risk of pseudomembranous colitis caused by C difficile; may cause severe photosensitivity reactions in patients exposed to sunlight or UV light; have been associated with a variety of CNS manifestations such as hallucinations and seizures; factors that increase risk of adverse effects should be noted when considering use of any quinolone
Drug Name
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Levofloxacin (Levaquin) -- Quinolone. Antimicrobial activity based on ability to inhibit bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerases, which are required for replication, transcription, and translation of genetic material. Quinolones have broad activity against gram-positive and gram-negative aerobic organisms. Differences in chemical structure between quinolones have resulted in altered levels of activity against different bacteria. Altered chemical structure results in toxicity differences as well. Quinolones have been given an "A, I" or "A, II" rating in the 1999 IDSA guidelines for treating UTIs.
Adult Dose 250-500 mg PO/IV qd
Pediatric Dose <18 years: Not recommended
>18 years: Administer as in adults
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity
Interactions Antacids, iron salts, and zinc salts may reduce oral absorption; administer antacids 2-4 h before or after taking fluoroquinolones; cimetidine may interfere with metabolism of fluoroquinolones; quinolones may reduce therapeutic effects of phenytoin; probenecid may increase serum concentrations of quinolones; may increase toxicity of caffeine, cyclosporine, and digoxin (monitor levels); may increase effects of anticoagulants (monitor PT)
Pregnancy C - Safety for use during pregnancy has not been established.
Precautions None
Drug Name
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Gatifloxacin (Tequin) -- Quinolone. Antimicrobial activity based on ability to inhibit bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerases, which are required for replication, transcription, and translation of genetic material. Quinolones have broad activity against gram-positive and gram-negative aerobic organisms. Differences in chemical structure between quinolones have resulted in altered levels of activity against different bacteria. Altered chemical structure results in toxicity differences as well. Quinolones have been given an "A, I" or "A, II" rating in the 1999 IDSA guidelines for treating UTIs.
Adult Dose 200-400 mg PO/IV qd
Pediatric Dose <18 years: Not recommended
>18 years: Administer as in adults
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity
Interactions Antacids, iron salts, and zinc salts may reduce oral absorption; administer antacids 2-4 h before or after taking fluoroquinolones; cimetidine may interfere with metabolism of fluoroquinolones; quinolones may reduce therapeutic effects of phenytoin; probenecid may increase serum concentrations of quinolones; may increase toxicity of theophylline, caffeine, cyclosporine, and digoxin (monitor levels); may increase effects of anticoagulants (monitor PT)
Pregnancy C - Safety for use during pregnancy has not been established.
Precautions None
Drug Name
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Ertapenem (Invanz) -- Bactericidal activity results from inhibition of cell wall synthesis and is mediated through ertapenem binding to penicillin binding proteins. Stable against hydrolysis by a variety of beta-lactamases including penicillinases, cephalosporinases, and extended spectrum beta-lactamases. Hydrolyzed by metallo-beta-lactamases.
Adult Dose 1 g qd for 14 d if given IV and 7 d if given IM; infuse over 30 min if given IV
Pediatric Dose Not established
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity to drug or amide type anesthetics
Interactions Probenecid may reduce renal clearance of ertapenem and increase half-life but benefit is minimum and does not justify coadministration
Pregnancy B - Usually safe but benefits must outweigh the risks.
Precautions Pseudomembranous colitis may occur; seizures and CNS adverse reactions may occur; when using with lidocaine to administer intramuscularly, avoid inadvertent injection into blood vessel
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