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Multicenter Evaluation of Ceftazidime/Avibactam in Pediatric Patients Across the United States: Real-World Insights into the Management of Drug-Resistant Gram-Negative Infections

Morrisette T, Stimes GT, Alvira-Arill GR, Lockowitz CR, Yuenger V, Facer EE, Huang A, Holger DJ et al.

Open forum infectious diseases, 2026

Abstract

Background: Antimicrobial resistance among gram-negative pathogens is a global threat, with children particularly vulnerable due to limited treatment options and age-specific clinical outcomes data. Ceftazidime/avibactam (CZA) is effective against resistant gram-negative bacteria and demonstrates high success rates in adults; however, pediatric data remain limited. This study examined CZA use in children across United States medical centers.

Methods: This multicenter, retrospective, observational cohort study included pediatric patients (<18 years) who received ≥48 hours of CZA for suspected or confirmed gram-negative infections between February 2015 and October 2023. The primary outcome was clinical success, defined as occurrence of all 3 components: (1) absence of all-cause mortality within 30 days of CZA initiation, (2) absence of microbiologic and clinical recurrence within 30 days of CZA discontinuation, and (3) resolution or improvement of infection-related signs and symptoms during CZA therapy without modification of therapy due to clinical failure. Secondary outcomes included adverse events attributable to CZA and resistance development to CZA.

Results: One-hundred patients were included, with most receiving CZA for targeted therapy (67%). The median (IQR) age and weight were 9.8 (1.9-15.9) years and 24.2 (12.2-49.9) kg, respectively. Nearly all patients (88%) had comorbidities, 42% of patients were immunocompromised, and more than half were admitted to the intensive…

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Evidence Hub reads this as a clinical trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence.

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