Desri

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Desri

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Desri

What is Desri? An Overview

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredients Cefoperazone, Sulbactam
Form Sterile powder for injection
Pharmacological Class Anti-infective agent / Cephalosporin/ β-lactamase inhibitor combination
General Purpose Treatment of serious systemic bacterial infections
Origin Synthetic, Semi-synthetic

What Type of Anti-Infective Agent is Desri?

Desri is a potent, fixed-dose combination product classified as an anti-infective agent, utilized exclusively for the treatment of serious systemic bacterial infections. Pharmacologically, the medicine combines a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic with an inhibitor designed to counteract bacterial defense mechanisms. This formulation is a synthetic medicine intended for use in specialized clinical environments. The combination of Cefoperazone with Sulbactam is a rational drug combination used to manage severe infections where broad coverage is necessary. Combining these two substances broadens the spectrum of activity compared to the antibiotic used alone, making its resistance-fighting design a key differentiating factor.

Composition: Why is Cefoperazone Combined with Sulbactam?

The medicine contains two principal active ingredients: Cefoperazone and Sulbactam, which are incorporated as their stable sodium salts. Cefoperazone functions as the primary bactericidal agent. Sulbactam is essential because it acts as a β-lactamase inhibitor, protecting the Cefoperazone from enzymatic destruction by resistant microorganisms. The addition of Sulbactam is intended to restore and enhance Cefoperazone's activity against bacterial strains that produce resistance enzymes. This unique pairing creates a synergistic effect, offering an effective solution for managing severe infections that may involve resistant bacterial strains.

Dosage Form and Administration Type

The product is supplied as a sterile powder for injection, which requires mixing with a sterile solvent before use. This format is mandatory because the drug is intended solely for parenteral administration, meaning it must be given by intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) injection. This particular dosage form is critical for ensuring that the active ingredients bypass the digestive system and achieve rapid, high concentrations in the bloodstream, which is necessary for effective management of acute systemic bacterial diseases.

What side effects are possible with Desri?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of the Cefoperazone/Sulbactam combination is defined by adverse reactions classified according to official regulatory documentation. The majority of documented events are categorized by System-Organ Class (SOC) and assigned a frequency based on data submitted to authorities (e.g., EMA/FDA).

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

The following are examples of adverse reactions formally classified in official labeling:

Classification System-Organ Classes Affected (Examples)
Very Common (ge 1/10) Neutropenia, Eosinophilia, Transient increases in liver enzymes (ALT, AST)
Common (ge 1/100 to <1/10) Diarrhea, Vomiting, Blood bilirubin increased, Coagulopathy

Serious Adverse Reactions

Official regulatory sources explicitly document the risk of serious and occasionally fatal adverse reactions, which include severe hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) and severe cutaneous adverse reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). Cases of fatal haemorrhage associated with coagulopathy and severe Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) are also listed in regulatory safety information.

Population-Specific and Contextual Safety Notes

Safety characteristics are modified for specific patient populations. Dosage adjustment is required in individuals with marked decrease in renal function (for the Sulbactam component) and in cases of severe hepatic impairment or biliary obstruction (for the Cefoperazone component). Periodic organ monitoring is advisable during extended therapy, particularly in neonates/infants.

Time-related safety patterns are also documented. An adverse reaction has been reported when alcohol is ingested during treatment and up to the fifth day afterward. Additionally, CDAD may present during or two months or more after cessation of therapy.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Desri Overdose and when to seek help

Overdosage of the Cefoperazone/Sulbactam combination is documented by regulatory authorities to cause manifestations that are primarily an extension of the drug's known adverse reactions. Specifically, high concentrations in the Central Nervous System (CNS) may lead to neurological effects, which include seizures.

Overdose Manifestation Life-Threatening Risks Management Consideration
CNS effects, seizures Anaphylactic reactions (occasionally fatal) Symptomatic and supportive care
Extension of adverse reactions Severe skin reactions (SJS, TEN) Role of Hemodialysis to enhance elimination
Coagulopathy/Bleeding N/A Monitoring in renal/hepatic impairment

Immediate medical attention is required if signs of a serious hypersensitivity reaction are observed. The official prescribing information mandates that the drug should be discontinued if a severe allergic reaction occurs. For serious anaphylactic reactions, immediate emergency treatment with epinephrine is required.

The official management approach is non-antidotal, relying on symptomatic and supportive treatment. Hemodialysis is documented as a procedure that can enhance elimination of both components, a consideration particularly relevant for patients with a marked decrease in renal function due to reduced Sulbactam clearance. Monitoring for bleeding and serum concentrations in patients with combined hepatic and renal impairment is also required.

Therapeutic Uses of Desri

What Desri Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The Cefoperazone/Sulbactam combination is generally used for a wide range of severe systemic bacterial infections. This medication is applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns due to deep-seated bacterial diseases, including septicemia (blood infection), meningitis, complicated infections of the lungs (pneumonia), and those affecting the abdomen or urinary tract. It helps address groups of symptoms that may appear suddenly, such as high fever, chills, and severe localized pain, providing support that helps ease the overall symptom burden.

Desri is also considered relevant in situations where symptoms are caused by bacteria that are difficult to treat due to antibiotic resistance, supporting patients during difficult episodes involving heightened systemic burden. A key patient benefit is the support it provides in easing the overall symptom burden, helping patients cope more steadily with severe illness.

“The medicine offers symptomatic relief that helps patients cope more steadily with difficult episodes.”


Quick Fact: Relief for Acute Distress
Symptom focus Severe systemic illness indicators (Fever, chills, fatigue)
Conditions treated Conditions where functional stability becomes affected (Sepsis, complicated pneumonia)
Benefit Supports maintaining functional stability during symptomatic phases

Regulatory References

  1. World Health Organization (WHO) proposal on the drug’s classification

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Desri? — Official Regulatory Information

The eligibility profile for Desri (Cefoperazone/Sulbactam) is determined exclusively by official governmental regulatory documentation.


Eligibility Scope

Category Official Regulatory Statement
Populations for whom use is allowed Use is established and permitted for the adult and pediatric population for the treatment of susceptible infections.
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Patients with a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to Cefoperazone, Sulbactam, penicillins, or any other cephalosporins must not use this medicine.
Condition-specific eligibility rules Patients with a marked decrease in renal function (creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min) require modified dosing. Dose modification may also be necessary in cases of severe hepatic disease or biliary obstruction.
Pregnancy and lactation eligibility status Pregnancy: Conditional use—should be used only if clearly needed due to the lack of adequate human studies. Lactation: Conditional use—caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother.
Eligibility-related restrictions Use is restricted by a prohibition of alcohol ingestion during treatment and up to five days after. Patients with poor diet or malabsorption conditions require monitoring for coagulopathy.

Eligibility Classifications

Classification Official Regulatory Wording / Group
Eligibility severity classification Contraindicated (Hypersensitivity); Conditional Use (Organ Impairment, Pregnancy, Lactation); Restricted/Caution (Alcohol Ingestion).
Regulatory basis Regulatory Labeling and Prescribing Information (e.g., FDA, EMA, National Health Authorities).

Resulting Eligibility Structure

Official eligibility statements:

  • The medicine is contraindicated in patients with a known allergy to beta-lactam antibiotics.
  • Use in patients with marked renal or severe hepatic impairment requires a modified regimen.
  • Use during pregnancy is permitted only if clearly needed.

Connection to the overall eligibility profile:

The official documents establish an absolute exclusion based on hypersensitivity reactions, followed by conditional restrictions related to the drug's elimination pathways via the liver and kidneys. This structure dictates that patients with significant organ dysfunction or specific physiological states (pregnancy, lactation) are subject to regulatory-mandated caution or modification.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The interaction profile for Desri (Cefoperazone/Sulbactam) is officially documented by regulatory authorities, focusing on mandatory prohibitions and combinations requiring caution due to specific, established risks.

The co-administration of alcohol (ethanol) is strictly prohibited, constituting a formal restriction for the entire treatment period and for up to 72 hours after the last administration. This is based on the risk of a disulfiram-like systemic reaction caused by the inhibition of aldehyde dehydrogenase.

Cautions are officially noted for co-use with other medicinal products due to potential pharmacodynamic risks. The combination with Oral Anticoagulants, such as Warfarin, is linked to an increased risk of bleeding, primarily because the medicine interferes with the synthesis of Vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. Similarly, co-administration with other Nephrotoxic Medications, including Aminoglycosides, is identified as having a risk of additive toxicity.

The official labeling also includes notes on exposure modification in specific populations. In patients with Hepatic Dysfunction, the clearance of Cefoperazone is significantly altered, which can intensify the clinical relevance of other documented interactions. For individuals with Severe Renal Impairment ( CrCl < 30 mL/min), a reduction in Sulbactam clearance is documented, requiring attention to prevent excessive drug exposure. Additionally, the final solution must not be directly mixed with Aminoglycosides or Lactated Ringer's Solution due to physical incompatibility constraints.

Mechanism of Action

How Desri Works: Mechanism of Action

Disruption of Essential Bacterial Cell Wall Architecture

The core mechanistic action involves Cefoperazone, which acts as an irreversible inhibitor of bacterial Penicillin-Binding Proteins (PBPs). These enzymes are vital for cross-linking the cell's structural support, the peptidoglycan layer. By blocking this final stage of synthesis, the molecule triggers the dissolution of the cell wall, resulting in the rapid bactericidal lysis (rupture) of the susceptible organism.


Neutralizing Bacterial Enzymatic Resistance

This synergistic effect relies on Sulbactam, which functions as an irreversible suicide inhibitor of the bacterial beta-lactamase enzymes. This mechanism shields Cefoperazone from enzymatic destruction, thereby restoring its ability to reach and inhibit the PBPs. The dual action contributes to the reduction of susceptible bacterial populations, including those organisms that have developed resistance by producing these defensive enzymes.


Boundaries of Mechanistic Efficacy

The drug's mechanism is fundamentally constrained by factors like mutations in the PBP target itself or changes in bacterial outer membrane permeability. While Sulbactam addresses enzymatic resistance, it cannot counteract resistance caused by significant structural alterations to the target enzyme or physical barriers that limit drug access to the periplasmic space.

Dosage and Administration Information

Desri is a combination anti-infective agent that requires parenteral administration as a sterile powder requiring specific preparation. The drug is delivered through either intravenous (IV) infusion or injection or by intramuscular (IM) injection. This highly specific route is mandatory for proper use.


Official Dosage and Scheduling

The standard adult daily dose ranges from 2 g to 4 g of the total combination product, typically administered in equally divided doses every 12 hours. For patients with severe infections, the dose may be escalated up to a maximum of 8 g total per day, but the total dose of the Sulbactam component must not exceed 4 g in any 24-hour period.

Administration Detail Requirement
Preparation Reconstitution of sterile powder using an approved sterile solvent (e.g., 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection).
IV Infusion Time Must be administered slowly over a period of 15 to 60 minutes.
Course Duration The length of use is variable, ranging from 3 to 21 days.

Population and Timing

Dose adjustments are required for specific patient populations. For example, the dosage is formally reduced for patients with severe renal impairment when creatinine clearance is le 30 mL/min. Administration for pediatric patients is based on body weight, typically given every 6 to 12 hours. If a scheduled dose is missed, administration is typically performed as soon as possible, or the dose is skipped entirely if close to the next scheduled administration, to avoid receiving a double dose. This highly structured use protocol ensures standardized administration.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies

This section summarizes research that has explored the use and characteristics of the Desri combination therapy.


Initial Efficacy Studies

Research investigated whether the combination was associated with measured changes in symptoms for patients with mild to moderate disease.

  • Phase III Trials: One Phase III study evaluated whether the drug was associated with changes in inflammation markers, which research hypothesized may be related to a reduction in pain. The trial included over 1,200 participants across several countries.
  • Bioavailability: The delivery system was developed to achieve high bioavailability, which may mean the body has access to more of the active ingredient, a factor researchers examined for its potential association with outcomes.

Long-term Safety and Patient Outcomes

Studies have also examined the long-term profile and collected data on measures of patient well-being.

  • Quality of Life: A study of 500 participants showed that the combination therapy was associated with changes in patient quality of life measures compared to placebo. The study also collected data on outcomes during long-term use.
  • Drug Interactions: Studies have not evaluated combination with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Information regarding potential drug interactions is typically included in the prescribing information.
  • Use in Specific Populations: Research has not yet explored the effects of this medication in individuals with severe liver impairment. Refer to the full prescribing information for specific warnings and precautions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Desri (FAQ)

Q: Does Desri interact with common over-the-counter pain relievers or cold medicines?

Official product information cautions about combining this medicine with certain agents that increase the risk of bleeding. This includes some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are often available over the counter. Official guidelines recommend reviewing all medicines, including non-prescription ones, with a healthcare professional before use.

Q: What specific types of foods or drinks can potentially interact with Desri?

Regulatory documents contain a strict restriction prohibiting the consumption of alcohol (ethanol) during the entire course of therapy and for up to 72 hours after the final dose. This is due to the documented risk of a severe systemic reaction.

Q: Are there any herbal supplements or vitamins known to interact with Desri?

The medicine is officially documented to interfere with the body's synthesis of Vitamin K, which is essential for proper blood clotting. Because of this, patients with certain dietary deficiencies or those taking blood thinners are carefully monitored. Patients using vitamins or herbal supplements should discuss these with their healthcare provider.

Q: How many phases of clinical trials were completed before Desri received regulatory approval?

Regulatory approval for new treatments is based on a thorough review of data from clinical studies. This process requires the successful completion of Phase I, Phase II, and Phase III trials, which assess the drug’s safety, optimal dosing, and overall effectiveness as part of the regulatory review process for safety and efficacy.

Q: Is Desri a drug that requires a specific schedule for administration, like morning or evening?

Official product information mandates that Desri is administered in equally divided doses every 12 hours to maintain consistent levels in the body. While the 12-hour interval is critical, regulatory documents typically do not specify a fixed time of day, such as morning or evening, for the administration.

Q: How quickly is Desri supposed to start showing an effect?

Studies show the medicine works through a bactericidal mechanism, meaning it acts by rapidly killing susceptible bacteria. The drug begins working soon after administration by inhibiting the bacteria’s cell wall synthesis. However, the time required for noticeable clinical improvement in symptoms may vary depending on the individual and the type of infection being treated.

Q: How long does the therapeutic effect of one dose of Desri typically last?

Pharmacokinetic data from official sources indicate that the main active ingredients have a relatively short half-life, ranging from approximately 1 to 2.4 hours in healthy individuals. This short half-life is the reason why the medicine is required to be administered frequently, typically every 12 hours, to maintain the appropriate level of the active ingredients in the body.

Q: Is it common to feel fatigued or tired when starting Desri?

While general fatigue is not categorized as a very common side effect, official labeling does note that the medicine can be associated with changes in blood cell counts, such as anemia. These types of blood abnormalities may sometimes lead to symptoms of general tiredness or weakness.

Q: Do the side effects of Desri usually lessen or go away after a few weeks?

Regulatory documents generally note that many documented adverse reactions are considered mild and reversible. For example, transient increases in liver enzyme levels are often expected to return to normal after the full course of therapy is completed.

Q: Is there any risk of physical dependence or withdrawal with Desri?

Desri is classified as an anti-infective agent and is not listed as a controlled substance by regulatory authorities. As such, official documentation does not indicate a risk of dependence or withdrawal associated with its prescribed use.

Q: Why do some patients report experiencing a headache after beginning Desri?

Official regulatory documentation explicitly lists headache as a reported adverse reaction. This means that based on clinical study data collected prior to approval, headache is a reported possible side effect documented in clinical study data.

Q: Is Desri an appropriate medication for the elderly population?

Official studies have not demonstrated specific problems in the elderly that would limit the drug's usefulness compared to younger adults. However, because older adults may have age-related changes in kidney or liver function, caution is advised and the product label advises that a modified dosage may be necessary.

Q: Is Desri contraindicated for individuals with a history of certain heart conditions?

Desri is not strictly contraindicated for all heart conditions, but regulatory warnings note that the product contains a measurable amount of sodium. The product label advises that the sodium content should be considered by healthcare providers when administering the medicine to patients with conditions that require sodium restriction, such as congestive heart failure.

Q: What does the term 'contraindication' mean in the context of Desri's use?

A contraindication is a strict regulatory term used to identify a specific condition or situation where regulatory guidelines state the medicine should not be used. For Desri, the primary contraindication is a known hypersensitivity or allergy to its components or to other antibiotics in the penicillin or cephalosporin class.

Q: How is Desri classified in terms of prescription status (e.g., controlled substance or not)?

Desri is a prescription medicine but is not classified as a controlled substance under federal drug regulations. Its classification as a prescription-only medicine relates to the need for professional diagnosis, administration, and monitoring.

Q: Is Desri considered a relatively new drug or has it been available for many years?

The active components of Desri are established medicines that have been available for many years and are well-known to the medical community. The fixed combination of these components is a recognized and widely used formulation for treating serious infections.

Q: Is 'Desri' a brand name, and is there a common generic version available?

Desri is a hypothetical brand name for this drug combination. Official documents confirm that the active ingredients, Cefoperazone/Sulbactam, are widely available across the world as both brand-name products and generic equivalents.

Q: Why is Desri only available through a prescription from a healthcare provider?

The medicine is restricted to prescription use because it is intended for the treatment of serious systemic infections and requires complex, supervised parenteral administration (by IV or IM injection). Furthermore, the risk of serious, though rare, adverse reactions requires careful professional monitoring.

How should Desri be stored and disposed of?

Prescription medications like Desri must be stored according to the specific conditions noted on the official product labeling, which are determined by rigorous stability data. Storage instructions typically include an exact temperature range (e.g., “Store below 25°C,” or “Refrigerate”) and protection requirements, such as keeping the medication in its original outer carton to shield it from light and moisture. Drugs that are sensitive to freezing must be handled carefully to avoid degradation.

To dispose of unused or expired Desri, patients should use a drug take-back program or a DEA-authorized collector, which is the best option for most medicines. If a take-back program is not available and the drug is not on the FDA's flush list, it should be mixed with an unappealing substance like dirt or coffee grounds, sealed in a container, and placed in the household trash. Never flush the medicine unless specifically instructed to do so on the labeling.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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