[New β‑lactam antibiotics and β‑lactamase inhibitors against multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria].

BACKGROUND

The worldwide spread of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (MDR-GN) continues. Treatment options for infections caused by MDR-GN remain scarce and only few new substances are currently in clinical phase II/III studies or have already been granted market approval.

OBJECTIVES

To provide an overview about current data on new β‑lactam antibiotics and β‑lactamase inhibitor combinations, respectively. New macrolides, ketolides and aminoglycosides are not addressed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Selective literature research regarding published data on ceftazidim/avibactam, ceftolozan/tazobactam, imipenem/cilastatin + relebactam, meropenem/vaborbactam, aztreonam/avibactam and cefiderocol, as well as registered trials.

RESULTS

The development of new antimicrobials for the treatment of MDR-GN infections offers new options for attending physicians. β‑Lactamase producers are inhibited by these new substances, though with varying efficacy; however, there are still no adequate treatment options for metallo-β-lactamase (MBL) producers.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical data are still indifferent and come from heterogeneous patient collectives. Direct comparisons with established treatment strategies, such as the "last-resort use" of polymyxins are hardly possible. Cases of early development of resistance have already been described. Finally, the importance of toxicity and optimal dosing-in organ failure or organ replacement procedures such as dialysis-remain unclear.