Cefamandole (INN, also known as cephamandole) is a broad-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotic. The clinically used form of cefamandole is the formate ester cefamandole nafate, a prodrug which is administered parenterally. Cefamandole is no longer available in the United States.
Indication
For the treatment of serious infections caused by susceptible strains of microorganisms.
Pharmacology
Cefamandole is a broad-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotic. The clinically used form of cefamandole is the formate ester cefamandole nafate, a prodrug which is administered parenterally. The bactericidal action of cefamandole results from inhibition of cell-wall synthesis. Cephalosporins have in vitro activity against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.
Toxicity
Symptoms of overdose include blood in the urine, diarrhea, nausea, upper abdominal pain, and vomiting.
Affected Organisms
Enteric bacteria and other eubacteria
Half Life
The half-life after an intravenous dose is 32 minutes; after intramuscular administration, the half-life is 60 minutes.