Science & Research | February 19th, 2026

Survey on the use of new antibiotics in neonates

 

A collaborative team of researchers specialized in neonatal pharmacology has developed a survey focused on using new antibiotics, such as ceftazidime/avibactam and cefiderocol. Neonatal sepsis continues to be a significant contributor to infant mortality and morbidity globally, with approximately 1.3 million cases and 230,000 neonatal deaths reported annually. In recent years, multi-drug-resistant (MDR) bacteria have increasingly been identified as causative agents of both early-onset sepsis (EOS) and late-onset sepsis (LOS). Gram-negative pathogens account for 39–64% of neonatal sepsis cases. New antimicrobials, beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitors like ceftazidime/avibactam and cefiderocol, a siderophore cephalosporin, offer promising options for treating MDR Gram-negative infections in NICUs.

Ceftazidime/avibactam has been recently included in the treatment guidelines for carbapenemase-positive and negative Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) infections in children with no age restrictions. Cefiderocol is approved for Gram-negative infections with limited therapeutic options in adults. The increasing prevalence of multi-drug-resistant Gram-negative infections in neonates across European NICUs, along with the challenges posed by limited treatment options, highlights the need for comprehensive data on these innovative antimicrobials.
This survey aims to evaluate the use of ceftazidime/avibactam and cefiderocol in real-life practice across European NICUs, assessing their clinical efficacy, microbiological outcomes, and safety. By analyzing their use, we intend to refine therapeutic strategies and optimize antimicrobial stewardship protocols to improve outcomes for this vulnerable population. Additionally, we aim to explore adherence to local or international guidelines on neonatal infections.

We respectfully recommend that the director of the NICU or a senior neonatologist from the unit participate in this survey. The name of the Neonatal Unit is requested solely to reduce the risk of response duplication and will be removed before data processing. No individual or institution will receive information regarding the specific responses provided.

Completing the survey is expected to take approximately 15 minutes.

Thank you for considering participation in this important research.