Comparison of the Pharmacokinetics of Cefamandole and Other Cephalosporin Compounds

Abstract

The phannacokinetic properties of cefamandole were determined and compared with the properties of other cephalosporin agents. Cefamandole was found to be ∼70% bound to protein. The mean peak concentration in serum after intramuscular (im) injection of I g of cefamandole was 20 μg/ml at 0.5 hr, whereas the level at 6 hr was 1 μg/ml. After intravenous (iv) infusion of 1 g of cefamandole, levels in serum ranged from 68 to 147 μg/ml depending on the period of infusion. At 4 hr after infusion, levels were 2 The apparent volume of distribution ranged from 12.4 to 17.9 liters/1.73 m², Urinary excretion was rapid, with 60% of a dose excreted in the first 2 hr after injection. In 6 hr 90% of a dose was excreted. The pharmacokinetic properties of cefamandole were similar to those of cephalothin and cefoxitin, but the serum t½ was shorter than that reported for cefazolin and cefuroxime. Correlation of in vitro studies with pharmacokinetic properties revealed that cefamandole would inhibit most susceptible grampositive and gram-negative bacteria if given by suggested im or iv regimens.