Azlocillin: Effects, Uses & Risks

Azlocillin is a subgroup of the acylaminopenicillins. These are certain beta-lactam antibiotics that are particularly effective against Gram-negative pathogens. Azlocillin is administered parenterally, which is typical for representatives of its group. The medicinal agent is used to combat various infectious diseases.

What is azlocillin?

Azlocillin, along with apalcillin, mezlocillin, and piperacillin, is one of the acylaminopenicillins. These are a group of broad-spectrum antibiotics that are classified as penicillins and trace back to the parent substance 6-aminopenicillanic acid. The group of acylaminopenicillins has a betalactam ring in its molecular structure, which is why representatives of the group are also referred to as betalacam antibiotics. Azlocillin has a broad spectrum of activity, which is typical for representatives of its class of active ingredients. However, it is primarily used to combat gram-negative bacteria. In human medicine, biology and pharmacology, gram-negative bacteria and pathogens are those that turn red under the microscope when a differential staining procedure is performed. This distinguishes them from so-called gram-positive pathogens, which turn blue when the procedure is performed. The most important pathogens against which azlocillin can be used include the bacteria of the Proteus and Pseudomonas types, which can cause respiratory diseases, among other things. Proteus pathogens are intestinal bacteria that are ubiquitously found in nature. Pseudomonads, on the other hand, are described as aerobic bacteria that move actively and are found primarily in water and on plants. The molecular formula of azlocillin is C 20 – H 23 – N 5 – O 6 – S. This corresponds to a moral mass (molecular weight) of approximately 461.49 g/mol. It is administered parenterally in human medicine, i.e., past the intestine.

Pharmacologic effects on the body and organs

The pharmacologic action of azlocillin corresponds to the typical characteristics of a beta-lactam antibiotic. The drug attacks the metabolism of infectious Gram-negative bacteria immediately after ingestion. Azlocillin penetrates their interior and blocks the essential enzyme D-alanine transpeptidase. As a result, the pathogenic bacteria are no longer able to renew their cell wall independently. Multiplication is stopped and the bacteria eventually die. The mechanism of action of azlocillin can thus be described as bactericidal. Excretion is renal, i.e., primarily via the kidneys.

Medical use and use for treatment and prevention.

The bactericidal agent azlocillin is primarily used to control Gram-negative pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, enterococci, and Proteus. Accordingly, azlocillin is used to combat infectious diseases. The typical field of application includes respiratory diseases as well as infections of the urinary or abdominal tract. Although azlocillin is mainly used against gram-negative bacteria, it can also be used to kill gram-positive pathogens. However, the literature describes its efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria as much lower, so other agents enjoy preference for controlling Gram-negative pathogens. Since azlocillin is less common than other representatives of its drug class, it can be used to treat hospital-acquired germs. In severe infections, combination with other drugs may also be indicated. Azlocillin is typically administered parenterally, past the intestine. This is because the antibiotic is neither beta-lactamase stable nor acid stable. Through an injection, the drug enters the bloodstream immediately, which greatly increases the onset of action.

Risks and side effects

Adverse side effects may also occur after taking azlocillin. However, this is not mandatory. The majority of intakes are free of adverse effects. Before the first use, it should be checked in any case whether there is a known intolerance to penicillin or drugs related to it. This is because intolerance or allergies constitute a contraindication. From a medical point of view, it is therefore reasonable to refrain from taking the drug, as it is associated with high risks. This also applies to cross-allergies with other beta-lactam antibiotics.The most common side effects that may occur after taking azlocillin include skin reactions (e.g., itching, redness, swelling, or rashes), fever, or headache. In addition, inflammation of the kidneys, the development of anemia, and vascular inflammation are also conceivable. However, these side effects are rare. During pregnancy and lactation, extreme caution should be exercised when using Azlocillin. An extensive risk-benefit analysis should always be carried out. Obtaining several medical opinions may also be advisable. The same applies to people suffering from renal impairment, as the breakdown of the active substance is predominantly renal.