A note on the effect of gamma-rays on cefamandole and oxacillin.

The feasibility of the radiation sterilization of two beta-lactam antibiotic powders, cefamandole nafate and oxacillin sodium, has been examined by subjecting them to a range gamma-radiation doses, followed by chemical and microbiological analyses. It would appear feasible to radiation sterilize oxacillin sodium. The radiation sterilization of cefamandole nafate may be realistic at low doses or under conditions that minimize radiolysis.