Local treatment of respiratory infections with antibiotics.

Local administration of antibiotics for the treatment of respiratory infections has the potential advantage of reduced systemic toxicity and increased drug concentration at the site of infection. This article reviews the basic principles of pulmonary drug delivery using aerosols and the clinical efficacy of local antibiotic therapy of respiratory infections. Clinical studies have been conducted with locally administered aminoglycosides, penicillins, cephalosporins, and polypeptides. The results of these investigations and the pharmacokinetic aspects of pulmonary antibiotic delivery are summarized.