Teflaro

Teflaro is the brand name for ceftaroline fosamil, a cephalosporin antibiotic (beta-lactam) used to treat certain bacterial infections. It is a prodrug that is converted in the body to the active agent ceftaroline, which inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding penicillin-binding proteins, including the altered PBP2a found in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). This mechanism underpins its activity against MRSA and other bacteria.

The antimicrobial spectrum of ceftaroline fosamil includes MRSA, various Streptococcus species, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. It also covers some Gram-negative pathogens such as Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella species, but it has limited activity against anaerobes and does not reliably cover Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Indications for Teflaro typically include acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI) and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP) in adults, with pediatric use approved for certain age groups. It is administered by intravenous infusion, usually given every 12 hours, with the duration of therapy determined by the severity and type of infection.

Common adverse effects reported with ceftaroline fosamil include diarrhea, nausea, rash, and infusion-related reactions. As with other beta-lactams, there is a potential risk of hypersensitivity and, in some cases, Clostridioides difficile infection. Caution is advised in patients with known penicillin allergy, and as with all antibiotics, stewardship should guide use to minimize resistance development.

Notably, Teflaro is not active against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and its use should align with local susceptibility patterns and clinical guidelines.