Efficacy of fifth generation cephalosporins against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus-A review

In recent decades, microbial resistance has reached to an incredibly alarming levels, leading to the development of more potent antimicrobial agents. MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus) in particular, has become the leading cause of skin and soft tissue infections. Severe or potentially life-threatening MRSA infections occur most frequently among patients in contact with health care settings, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Novel fifth generation cephalosporins, including ceftaroline fosamate and ceftobiprole medocaril has shown their efficacy in the treatment of acute bacterial skin and soft tissue infections and community acquired bacterial pneumonia. Till date, ceftaroline has provided a safe use with minimal side effects and exhibits a low potential to induce resistance, though further clinical data in the long run is required.