# Cefepime linked to higher death risk in adults

> New study shows common antibiotic may raise death risk in older adults
- Title: Cefepime linked to higher death risk in adults · New York Post
- Summary: New study shows common antibiotic may raise death risk in older adults Cefepime's death risk is tied to dosing, not the drug itself
- Keywords: cefepime, antibiotic, mortality, febrile neutropenia, beta-lactam, dosing, jama network open, news, entertainment, linked, higher, death
- Source: New York Post — https://nypost.com/2026/09/16/health/common-antibiotic-linked-to-higher-risk-of-death-in-adults-study-finds
- Published: 2026-09-16T15:29:51+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: cefepime, antibiotic, mortality, febrile neutropenia, beta-lactam, dosing, jama network open, news, entertainment
## Cefepime risks
New study links cefepime to higher death risk in adults

> The antibiotic, cefepime, which is used to treat bacterial infections like pneumonia, UTIs, and skin infections, is typically administered via injection by healthcare providers in a clinical setting.
## Study details
11,726 patients showed 6.6% death rate with cefepime vs 6.2% with other antibiotics

> Across all trials, 778 deaths occurred among 11,726 patients (6.6%) given cefepime, compared to 6.2% of patients given another antibiotic.
## Why higher risk?
Underdosing and overdosing may cause harm, not the drug itself

> In this case, it correctly pointed out that febrile neutropenia is itself a big cause of death in this population
## Dosing challenge
Finding the right dose is hard: higher doses kill more bacteria but increase side effects

> Researchers said finding the right dose of cefepime can be challenging, as higher doses may improve its ability to kill bacteria while also increasing the risk of toxic side effects.
## Expert insight
AI could help determine optimal dosing for cefepime

> I also think there may be a role for AI here in determining the exact right dose, as well as assessing outcome
## Key takeaway

Cefepime's death risk is tied to dosing, not the drug itself