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Table of Contents

1. What is Ceftazidime?
2. Do You Need a Prescription for Ceftazidime?
3. How Does Ceftazidime Work?
4. Common Side Effects of Ceftazidime
5. Drug Interactions with Ceftazidime

What is Ceftazidime?

Ceftazidime is an antibiotic medication used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It belongs to a class of drugs known as cephalosporin antibiotics. Ceftazidime works by preventing the growth and spread of bacteria in the body. It is commonly used to treat infections of the skin, urinary tract, lungs, and other parts of the body. Ceftazidime is also used to prevent infections in people who are undergoing certain medical procedures.

Ceftazidime is available as an oral tablet, an intravenous (IV) injection, and an intramuscular (IM) injection. The oral tablet is typically taken once or twice a day, while the IV and IM injections are usually given once every 24 hours. The dosage and length of treatment depend on the type of infection being treated.

Do You Need a Prescription for Ceftazidime?

Yes, ceftazidime is a prescription medication. It is not available over-the-counter (OTC). You must have a valid prescription from your doctor or healthcare provider in order to purchase and use ceftazidime.

How Does Ceftazidime Work?

Ceftazidime belongs to a class of drugs known as cephalosporin antibiotics. It works by preventing the growth and spread of bacteria in the body. It does this by binding to a specific part of the bacterial cell wall, which prevents the bacteria from making new proteins. This stops the bacteria from growing and multiplying, and eventually leads to the death of the bacteria.

Ceftazidime is effective against a wide range of bacteria, including some that are resistant to other antibiotics. It is commonly used to treat infections of the skin, urinary tract, lungs, and other parts of the body. It is also used to prevent infections in people who are undergoing certain medical procedures.

Common Side Effects of Ceftazidime

The most common side effects of ceftazidime include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache. Other side effects may include rash, itching, dizziness, and abdominal pain. Most of these side effects are mild and do not require medical attention. However, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor or healthcare provider.

Drug Interactions with Ceftazidime

Ceftazidime may interact with other medications, including certain antibiotics, antifungals, and antivirals. It is important to tell your doctor or healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, including vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter medications.

It is also important to tell your doctor or healthcare provider if you are taking any other medications that can affect the kidneys, such as diuretics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Taking these medications together may increase your risk of kidney damage.

You should also avoid drinking alcohol while taking ceftazidime, as it can increase the risk of side effects.

Indications for Ceftazidime

Ceftazidime is an antibiotic medication used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It is most commonly used to treat infections of the skin, lungs, urinary tract, and abdomen, as well as infections of the blood. Ceftazidime is also used to treat certain types of meningitis and gonorrhea. Ceftazidime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic, and it works by stopping the growth of bacteria.1

Dosage and Administration Recommendations

The dosage of ceftazidime depends on the severity of the infection and the patient’s age, weight, and other medical conditions. The usual adult dose is 1 to 2 grams given intravenously every 8 to 12 hours. For children, the dosage is based on weight. Ceftazidime should be taken with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. It should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor.2

Common Drug Interactions

Ceftazidime may interact with other medications, including antacids, diuretics, and probenecid. It can also interact with certain antibiotics, such as aminoglycosides, and with anticoagulants, such as warfarin. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking before starting ceftazidime.3

Warnings

Ceftazidime should not be used by people who are allergic to cephalosporin antibiotics. It should also not be used by people with a history of kidney disease or by pregnant women. Ceftazidime may cause an allergic reaction in some people, including rash, hives, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.4

Clinical Pharmacology

Ceftazidime is rapidly and completely absorbed after intravenous administration. It is widely distributed throughout the body, including the cerebrospinal fluid, and is eliminated primarily by the kidneys. Ceftazidime is metabolized in the liver, and the metabolites are excreted in the urine. The half-life of ceftazidime is approximately 2 to 4 hours.5

Medication Guide

Ceftazidime is a prescription medication used to treat bacterial infections. It is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than the prescribed dose. Do not stop taking the medication without your doctor’s approval. Ceftazidime may cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache. Contact your doctor if you experience any of these side effects.6

Conclusion

Ceftazidime is an antibiotic medication used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor and to contact your doctor if you experience any side effects. Ceftazidime may interact with other medications, and it should not be used by people who are allergic to cephalosporin antibiotics or by pregnant women. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking before starting ceftazidime.7

References

1. “Ceftazidime: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing.” WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7331/ceftazidime-injection/details.

2. “Ceftazidime: Side Effects, Dosages, Treatment, Interactions, Warnings.” Drugs.com, Drugs.com, www.drugs.com/ceftazidime.html.

3. “Ceftazidime Drug Interactions – Drugs.com.” Drugs.com, Drugs.com, www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/ceftazidime.html.

4. “Ceftazidime: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing.” WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7331/ceftazidime-injection/details.

5. “Ceftazidime.” MedlinePlus Drug Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine, www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682084.html.

6. “Ceftazidime: Side Effects, Dosages, Treatment, Interactions, Warnings.” Drugs.com, Drugs.com, www.drugs.com/ceftazidime.html.

7. “Ceftazidime: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing.” WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7331/ceftazidime-injection/details.