[Therapeutic effects of cefepime and sulbactam/cefoperazone on moderate and severe respiratory tract infection in children].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the therapeutic effects and safety of cefepime (Maxipime) and sulbactam/cefoperazone (sulperazone) on moderate and severe respiratory infection in children.

METHODS: Totally 100 children hospitalized for pneumonia were randomized equally into 2 groups, namely group A with maxipime treatment at the dose of 50 mg/kg given intravenously twice daily, and group B with sulperazone treatment at 50-100 mg/kg given intravenously twice a day. The therapeutic effects and safety of both medications were observed.

RESULTS: In maxipime group, 44 of the 50 cases were cured with complete elimination of the symptoms and signs, and obvious therapeutic effect was achieved in 5 cases with significant improvement or resolution of the majority of symptoms and signs. One case failed to respond favorably to the treatment, with the overall efficacy rate of 98% without incidence of adverse effects. In sulperazone group, 40 of the 50 cases were cured, 6 showed significant improvement, and 4 failed to respond to the treatment, with the rate of 92%. One patient complained of rashes during sulperazone treatment, which disappeared the next day without sulperazone withdrawal. Significant difference was not noted between the groups (chi(2)=2.43, P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Both maxipime and sulperazon are effective and safe for application in children with moderate and severe respiratory infections.