From the Research
Efficacy of Zosyn (Piperacillin/Tazobactam) for Osteomyelitis
- The effectiveness of Zosyn (Piperacillin/Tazobactam) for osteomyelitis is supported by several studies 1, 2, 3.
- A review of antibiotic penetration into bone and joints found that piperacillin/tazobactam showed good penetration into bone and joint tissues, reaching concentrations exceeding the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of common pathogens implicated in bone and joint infections 1.
- A study using a rabbit osteomyelitis model found that local antibiotic therapy with piperacillin/tazobactam-filled polymethylmethacrylate capsules was effective in treating chronic osteomyelitis, with complete physical, radiological, and histological healing achieved in 7 out of 12 animals 2.
- Another study found that piperacillin/tazobactam penetrated well into synovial tissue, with concentrations achieved in synovial tissue above the MICs of most susceptible pathogens usually involved in joint infections 3.
Considerations for Treatment
- While Zosyn (Piperacillin/Tazobactam) may be effective for osteomyelitis, treatment should be individualized and based on the specific causative pathogen and the patient's overall condition 4.
- A case report highlighted the potential risk of piperacillin/tazobactam-induced thrombocytopenia, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring and precautions when using this antibiotic combination 5.
- The optimal treatment duration for chronic osteomyelitis has not been standardized, and systemic administration of antibiotics in patients with osteomyelitis is controversial 5.