Fosfomycin: Mechanism of Action and Uses

Fosfomycin is an antibiotic used to treat urinary tract infections caused by bacteria. It works by interfering with bacterial cell wall synthesis. Fosfomycin is available as a powder for oral administration.

Fosfomycin FAQ

Image credit: eberth-arzneimittel.com

What is fosfomycin used for?

The World Health Organization classifies fosfomycin as critically important for human medicine. It is available as a generic medication. It was originally produced by certain types of Streptomyces, although it is now made chemically. Fosfomycin is used to treat bladder infections, where it is usually given as a single dose by mouth.

What is an IV formulation of fosfomycin used for?

An IV formulation of fosfomycin is available in some countries and can be useful for more serious infections, including central nervous system infections, osteomyelitis, and pneumonia; when used to treat these infections, it is often used with other antibiotics such as beta-lactams.

What information is available on fosfomycin?

More information is available on fosfomycin including side effects, age restrictions, food interactions, whether the medicine is available at a government subsidised price on the pharmaceutical benefits scheme (PBS) as well as other useful information.

What is fosfomycin tromethamine used for?

Fosfomycin (the active agent in the chemical compound fosfomycin tromethamine or fosfomycin trometamol) is an antibiotic or antibacterial drug approved by the FDA for the treatment of urinary tract infections and cystitis ( bladder infections ). It is taken orally as a single-dose powder packet dissolved in a glass of water.

When was fosfomycin discovered?

Fosfomycin was discovered in 1969 and approved for medical use in the United States in 1996 [globalize]. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. The World Health Organization classifies fosfomycin as critically important for human medicine. It is available as a generic medication.

What drugs affect fosfomycin?

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially metoclopramide. Other drugs may affect fosfomycin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.