Lefamulin
Bacterial Pneumonia
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Pleuromutilin Antibacterial
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Lefamulin
Summary
Lefamulin is used to treat community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP) in adults. It's not effective against viral infections like colds or flu.
Lefamulin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It binds to the bacterial ribosome, preventing the correct positioning of tRNA and disrupting the production of essential proteins needed for bacterial growth and survival. This either slows the bacteria's growth or kills them, helping to clear the infection.
For adults, the usual dose of Lefamulin is 600 mg orally every 12 hours for 5 days. For intravenous administration, the dose is 150 mg every 12 hours over 60 minutes for 5 to 7 days.
Common side effects of Lefamulin include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Serious adverse effects can include QT interval prolongation, which may lead to heart rhythm problems, and severe diarrhea.
Important warnings for Lefamulin include the potential for QT interval prolongation, which can lead to serious heart rhythm problems. It is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Lefamulin or pleuromutilin class drugs and in those taking medications that prolong the QT interval. Patients with liver or kidney disease, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with a history of heart problems should use Lefamulin with caution and under medical supervision.
Indications and Purpose
How does Lefamulin work?
Lefamulin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It binds to the bacterial ribosome, preventing the correct positioning of tRNA, which is essential for protein production. This action stops the growth of bacteria, helping to clear the infection.
Is Lefamulin effective?
Lefamulin has been evaluated in clinical trials for its effectiveness in treating community-acquired bacterial pneumonia. In these trials, Lefamulin demonstrated similar efficacy to moxifloxacin, a commonly used antibiotic, in achieving early clinical response and clinical cure rates. These trials included a diverse patient population, providing evidence of Lefamulin's effectiveness across different demographics.
What is Lefamulin?
Lefamulin is an antibiotic used to treat community-acquired bacterial pneumonia. It belongs to the pleuromutilin class of antibiotics and works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, effectively stopping the growth of bacteria. Lefamulin is available in both oral and intravenous forms, providing flexibility in treatment options.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Lefamulin?
The typical duration of Lefamulin treatment for community-acquired bacterial pneumonia is 5 days when taken orally. If administered intravenously, the treatment can last between 5 to 7 days, depending on the patient's response and clinical condition.
How do I take Lefamulin?
Lefamulin tablets should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water, and do not crush or divide them. There are no specific food restrictions, but it's important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding diet and medication timing.
How long does it take for Lefamulin to start working?
Lefamulin typically begins to improve symptoms within the first few days of treatment. If symptoms do not improve or worsen, it's important to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.
How should I store Lefamulin?
Lefamulin tablets should be stored at room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with permissible excursions to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). The medication should be kept in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. It should be stored away from excess heat and moisture, and not in the bathroom.
What is the usual dose of Lefamulin?
For adults with community-acquired bacterial pneumonia, the usual dose of Lefamulin is 600 mg orally every 12 hours for 5 days. Alternatively, it can be administered as 150 mg intravenously every 12 hours for 5 to 7 days. Lefamulin is not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age, as its safety and effectiveness have not been established in this age group.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Lefamulin with other prescription drugs?
Lefamulin should not be used with drugs that prolong the QT interval, such as certain antipsychotics and antiarrhythmics, due to the risk of heart rhythm disturbances. It also interacts with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers, which can affect its metabolism and efficacy. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to avoid potential interactions.
Can Lefamulin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Lefamulin is not recommended for use while breastfeeding due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in the infant, including QT prolongation. Women should pump and discard breast milk during treatment and for 2 days after the final dose to ensure the drug is cleared from their system before resuming breastfeeding.
Can Lefamulin be taken safely while pregnant?
Lefamulin may cause fetal harm based on animal studies, which showed increased fetal loss and developmental delays. Pregnant women should avoid using Lefamulin unless absolutely necessary. Women of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 2 days after the final dose. If pregnancy occurs while taking Lefamulin, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Is Lefamulin safe for the elderly?
Lefamulin can be used safely in elderly patients, but they should be monitored closely for any adverse reactions. The adverse reaction profiles in patients aged 65 and older are similar to those in younger patients. However, elderly patients may have a higher risk of experiencing side effects due to age-related changes in drug metabolism and potential comorbidities.
Who should avoid taking Lefamulin?
Lefamulin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or its components. It should not be used with medications that prolong the QT interval, such as certain antipsychotics and antiarrhythmics, due to the risk of heart rhythm disturbances. Patients with liver impairment should be monitored closely, and Lefamulin should be used cautiously in pregnant women due to potential fetal harm.
