Cefoxitin: A Neglected Intravenous Betalactam With Interesting Perspectives

Cefoxitin is a beta-lactam antibiotic belonging to the cephamycins class, up to now only used in clinical practice for prophylaxis during surgery. Recently, its use has increased because of spread of infection with extended-spectrum beta-lactamase producing bacteria, in particular in urinary tract infection. Its antimicrobial spectrum is broad and cefoxitin is also useful in polymicrobial bone and joint infections or skin and soft tissue infections. Stability data allows its use as a continuous infusion in intensive care units or with elastomeric diffusor in outpatient. Cefoxitin is moreover well tolerated. The aim was to broadlight the interests of this old and inexpensive intravenous betalactam.