Adverse events associated with third-generation cephalosporins: Analysis of the FDA adverse event reporting system database

Third-generation cephalosporins are widely used and can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and stomach pain. Hypersensitivity reactions and drug-induced immune hemolytic anemia may also occur. This study investigates adverse events associated with these drugs using the FDA adverse event reporting system database. This descriptive study assessed adverse events linked to third-generation cephalosporins reported to the Food and Drug Administration. The data was analyzed descriptively and presented as numbers and percentages in tables, each corresponding to a specific third-generation cephalosporin. The most reported adverse events of cefotaxime were pain, eosinophilia, and ineffective drugs. Ineffective medication, pyrexia, and sepsis were the most frequently reported adverse effects of ceftazidime. The most reported events of cefdinir were diarrhea, drug hypersensitivity, and rash. The most reported events of ceftriaxone included off-label use, ineffective drugs, and eosinophilia. The most reported events of cefpodoxime included pyrexia, pruritus, and diarrhea. The most reported events of cefoperazone were a decreased prothrombin level, hemorrhage, and pyrexia. The most reported adverse events of cefixime included diarrhea, clostridium colitis, and ineffective drugs. This study highlights that gastrointestinal issues, hypersensitivity reactions, and inadequate medication responses are the most commonly reported adverse effects of third-generation cephalosporins. Despite their effectiveness in treating various infections, healthcare professionals must remain vigilant about the potential side effects of these drugs.