The comparative activity of cefsulodin against anaerobic bacteria of clinical interest: synergy with cefoxitin

The in vitro activity of cefsulodin (CGP7174/E, SCE 129) against anaerobic bacteria was examined and compared with that of other antimicrobial agents. Its interaction with other antibiotics, notably cefoxitin, was evaluated. Although cefsulodin alone was relatively inactive, especially against strains of Bacteroides spp. and anaerobic cocci, it showed marked synergy with cefoxitin against many of these strains. The possible mechanisms of this synergistic effect are investigated and its possible clinical relevance in the treatment of serious polymicrobial infections is discussed.