Fosfomycin is an antibiotic that has a unique chemical structure. It is used mainly to treat bladder infections caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli) or Enterococcus faecalis. It is sometimes used to treat other infections when they are caused by bacteria resistant to other antibiotics.
Some bacteria have an outer covering (cell wall) that protects them. Fosfomycin works by preventing bacteria from forming this wall, resulting in death of the bacteria.
Fosfomycin
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Common Uses |
Some Side Effects |
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Bladder infections caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli) or Enterococcus faecalis Infections caused by fosfomycin-susceptible bacteria that are resistant to other antibiotics, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci* |
Nausea and diarrhea |
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* These infections require intravenous fosfomycin (not yet available in the United States). |
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Fosfomycin is usually well-tolerated but may cause nausea and diarrhea.
(See also Overview of Antibiotics.)
Use of Fosfomycin During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Fosfomycin should be used during pregnancy only when the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks. (See also Drug Use During Pregnancy.)
Whether use of fosfomycin during breastfeeding is safe is not known. (See also Drug Use During Breastfeeding.)
Drugs Mentioned In This Article
| Generic Name | Select Brand Names |
|---|---|
vancomycin |
VANCOCIN |
Fosfomycin |
MONUROL |
