Evaluation of the efficacy of cefmenoxime (CMX) nebulization therapy in sinusitis

Abstract

A rigorously controlled study of 1% CMX for nasal use was conducted to assess its efficacy and safety and to establish the proper dosage in the treatment of sinusitis. 1. The clinical efficacy rate (good and excellent ratings combined) according to the doctors in charge was 72.7% for 20mg vs. 84.2% for 40mg, the majority favoring 40mg. 2. The committee rated CMX clinically effective at 72.7% for 20mg vs. 64.5% for 40mg. The majority of committee members rated CMX clinically effective at both 20mg and 40mg doses. 3. X-ray findings interpreted by the doctors yielded an efficacy rate of 55.2% for 20mg vs. 74.2% for 40mg, again tending to favor doses of 40mg. Committee members interpreted the X-ray data as showing efficacy rates of 64.2% for 20mg vs. 74.2% for 40mg. 4. In evaluating bacteriological response, a majority of 75.5% rated 40mg as the more effective dose, contrasted with 56.6% who rated 20mg as the preferred dosage. 5. A mild side effect was found in one case in the 20mg group, which disappeared after discontinuation of CMX. The above results suggest that CMX nebulization therapy is as effective as, and sometimes more effective than, the usual systemic therapy with antimicrobials or anti-inflammatory enzymes, hence being a useful local therapy in the treatment of sinusitis.