Keflin, also known as cephalothin, is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic widely used to treat various bacterial
infections. It is a semisynthetic derivative of the natural compound cephalosporin C, which was isolated from the fungus Acremonium (formerly known as Cephalosporium).
Keflin belongs to the class of penicillins and is renowned for its penicillinase-resistant properties, making it effective against certain penicillin-resistant bacteria.
Keflin is primarily indicated for the treatment of the following bacterial
infections caused by susceptible strains:
Keflin has been shown to be effective against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, and Proteus species
[1]. The dosage of
Keflin varies depending on the type and severity of the
infection, the patient’s age, weight, and renal function. The standard adult dosage for most
infections is 1-2 grams administered intravenously or intramuscularly every 6-8 hours. For severe
infections, higher doses of up to 4 grams per day may be prescribed. Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with impaired renal function. Pediatric dosages are typically calculated based on body weight, with the recommended dose ranging from 25-100 mg/kg per day, divided into multiple doses
[2]. Like other antibiotics,
Keflin can cause a range of side effects, including: Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience any severe side effects or signs of an
allergic reaction
[3].
Keflin may interact with other medications, including: It is essential to inform healthcare professionals about all medications, supplements, and herbal products being taken to prevent potential interactions.
Keflin should be used with caution in the following situations: Patients should report any adverse effects or concerning symptoms to their healthcare provider.
Keflin is a bactericidal antibiotic that works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. It binds to and inactivates the penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) involved in the final stages of cell wall synthesis, leading to weakening and eventual cell lysis and death.
Keflin is resistant to penicillinases, enzymes produced by certain bacteria that can degrade and inactivate penicillin antibiotics. This resistance allows
Keflin to be effective against some penicillin-resistant strains of bacteria
[4].
Keflin exhibits the following pharmacokinetic properties: Adjustments to the dosage regimen may be necessary in patients with impaired renal function to prevent accumulation and potential toxicity.
Keflin is available in several formulations, including: A sterile powder for reconstitution and intravenous or intramuscular injection. An oral tablet formulation containing 200 mg of cephalothin. A sterile powder for reconstitution and intramuscular or intravenous administration.
Keflin can be administered intravenously as a direct injection or as a continuous or intermittent infusion. The reconstituted solution should be inspected for particulate matter and discoloration before administration.
Keflin can be administered by deep intramuscular injection into a large muscle mass, such as the gluteus or lateral aspect of the thigh. The injection site should be rotated to minimize discomfort and potential tissue damage.
Keflin was first synthesized in the late 1960s by researchers at Eli Lilly and Company. It was derived from the natural compound cephalosporin C, which was isolated from the fungus Acremonium (formerly known as Cephalosporium)
[5].
Keflin was approved for medical use in the United States in 1964 and became one of the first cephalosporin antibiotics available for clinical use. Its introduction provided an alternative to penicillin for the treatment of
infections caused by penicillin-resistant bacteria. The chemical name of
Keflin is sodium (6R,7R)-3-acetoxymethyl-7-[(2R)-2-amino-2-phenylacetamido]-8-oxo-5-thia-1-azabicyclo[4.2.0]oct-2-ene-2-carboxylate, with the molecular formula C
16H
15N
2O
6S
2Na and a molecular weight of 418.42 g/mol.
Keflin exists as a zwitterionic compound, with both cationic and anionic centers. The anionic form, known as cefalotin(1-), has a chemical formula of C
16H
15N
2O
6S
2– and a molecular weight of 397.40 g/mol
[6].
Keflin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic and is structurally related to penicillins. It shares some similarities with penicillins in terms of its antibacterial spectrum, but it also exhibits some unique properties: The choice between
Keflin and other antibiotics depends on the specific type of
infection, the susceptibility of the causative bacteria, and the patient’s medical history and potential for adverse reactions. Numerous research studies have been conducted to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics of
Keflin. Here are a few examples: These and other studies have contributed to our understanding of
Keflin‘s clinical applications, dosing, and potential adverse effects.
Keflin was originally developed and marketed by Eli Lilly and Company under the brand name KEFLIN®. However, after its patent expired, several pharmaceutical companies have produced and marketed generic versions of cephalothin. Some major manufacturers and trade names of
Keflin include:
Keflin: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Interactions
Table of Contents
Introduction
Medical Uses
Dosage
Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
Severe Side Effects:
Drug Interactions
Precautions and Warnings
Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics
Formulations
KEFLIN® Neutral
Keflin 200 MG Tablet
Keflin Neutral Powder for
Injection
Administration
Intravenous Administration
Intramuscular
Injection
Development and History
Chemical Properties
Comparison with Other
Antibiotics
Research Studies
Manufacturing and Marketing
