Ceftriaxone for methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections is associated with increased short-term mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Ann MedMay 11, 2026 (epub)
Alberto Enrico Maraolo, Mariano Nobile, Ivan Gentile
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of ceftriaxone compared to antistaphylococcal penicillins or cefazolin in treating methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections (MSSA-BSIs). In a total of 2,568 patients, ceftriaxone was associated with significantly increased 30-day mortality (OR 3.33; 95% CI: 2.17-5.10).
Key findings
- Ceftriaxone was linked to a 30-day mortality increase (OR 3.33; 95% CI: 2.17-5.10).
- No significant difference in 90-day mortality was observed (OR 1.71; 95% CI: 0.75-3.90).
- Clinical success rates were not significantly different (OR 0.49; 95% CI: 0.19-1.26).
- Adverse event rates were similar between ceftriaxone and standard treatments.
Why it matters
The findings suggest that ceftriaxone may not be a safe first-line treatment for MSSA-BSIs due to its association with increased short-term mortality. Clinicians should consider alternative therapies.