In vitro antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of prednicort and dexamethasone against clinical bacterial isolates, a pilot study

Abstract

Background: Preliminary research suggests that steroids may improve direct antimicrobial effects or enhance the efficiency of conventional antibiotics. Aim of the study: The present study aims to evaluate the antibacterial and antibiofilm actions of some steroids (Prednicort and Dexamethasone) on clinical bacterial isolates. Material and Method: A total of 17 isolated bacteria were obtained from clinical specimens between February to April 2023. The antibacterial and Antibiofilm activity of Dexamethasone and Prednicort was measured by using a microtiter plate assay. Results: Both drugs exhibited notable antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus isolates. Whereas their effects were less pronounced against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas spp. Moreover, pre-incubation of bacterial isolates with the drugs resulted in a significant reduction in their biofilm-forming ability. However, when both drugs were applied after a 24-hour incubation period (eradication phase), their impact on disrupting established biofilms was considerably diminished. Conclusion: Dexamethasone and prednisolone had an antibacterial effect, and the effect of prednisolone as an antibacterial was more and better than Dexamethasone. Furthermore, the antimicrobial efficacy was better on Staphylococcus aureus than on Pseudomonas spp and Escherichia coli.