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Oxacephem

Updated: 2026-07-21

Overview

Moxalactam, commonly referred to by its trade name Latamoxef, is a synthetic oxacephem antibiotic developed in the late 1970s. It shares structural similarities with cephalosporins but features an oxygen atom replacing sulfur in the dihydrothiazine ring, enhancing its stability against beta-lactamase enzymes. This modification grants it a broader spectrum of activity compared to earlier cephalosporins, particularly against Gram-negative bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa. As a third-generation antibiotic, moxalactam was historically significant for treating severe infections resistant to other antibiotics. However, its clinical use has declined due to the risk of bleeding disorders linked to its N-methylthiotetrazole (NMTT) side chain. Today, it remains a subject of research for structure-activity relationships in antibiotic design.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Moxalactam is a white crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 520.47 g/mol. It is highly soluble in water, facilitating intravenous administration, and exhibits moderate solubility in polar organic solvents like ethanol. The compound decomposes at temperatures above 150°C, necessitating careful storage to avoid degradation. Its chemical structure includes a beta-lactam ring critical for antibacterial activity, which binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in bacterial cell walls. The oxacephem core provides enhanced resistance to hydrolysis by beta-lactamases, while the NMTT side chain contributes to its unique pharmacokinetics and adverse effect profile.

Main Applications

Moxalactam was primarily used to treat severe infections caused by Gram-negative pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, and Proteus species. Its ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier made it valuable for bacterial meningitis cases. In surgical settings, it served as prophylaxis for abdominal and pelvic procedures due to its activity against anaerobic bacteria like Bacteroides fragilis. Despite its efficacy, the antibiotic's association with hypoprothrombinemia and bleeding disorders limited its long-term use. Current applications are largely restricted to specific multidrug-resistant infections under strict hematological monitoring. Research continues to explore derivatives with reduced toxicity.

Safety and Storage

Moxalactam requires careful handling to maintain potency and ensure user safety. It should be stored at 2-8°C in airtight containers protected from light and humidity. Prolonged exposure to heat or moisture can degrade the compound, reducing its effectiveness. Healthcare workers must monitor patients for signs of bleeding, particularly those with vitamin K deficiency or on anticoagulant therapy. The drug is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe penicillin or cephalosporin allergies. Proper disposal methods should follow local regulations for pharmaceutical waste to prevent environmental contamination.

B2B Procurement Guide

When procuring moxalactam, B2B buyers should prioritize suppliers certified for pharmaceutical active ingredients (APIs). Key verification points include CAS number (64952-97-2), HPLC purity (typically ≥98%), and absence of endotoxins. Batch-specific certificates of analysis (CoA) are essential for quality assurance. Given its specialized use, purchase volumes are often small-scale, with prices ranging from $50-$200 per gram depending on purity and supplier reputation. Consider partnering with manufacturers compliant with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards. For research applications, smaller quantities may be available through chemical distributors specializing in rare pharmaceuticals.

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