AZTREONAM
Background and Date of Approval
The U.S. FDA approved Aztreonam to prevent serious bacterial infections on December 24, 1998. Aztreonam injection is an antibiotic containing the active ingredient Aztreonam. This medicine was initially derived from Chromobacterium violaceum and belongs to the monobactam class of medications. The formulation also contains L-arginine.
Uses
Aztreonam is used to treat serious infections caused by bacteria. Monobactams are an antibiotic with a special structure called a monocyclic beta-lactam nucleus. This differentiates them from other commonly known antibiotics like penicillins, cephalosporins, and cephamycins.
How is it administered?
The medicine will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. It is usually administered in muscle or vein (intravenous). Your doctor will decide the dose, route of administration, and frequency based on your disease condition and other factors.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Aztreonam are nausea and diarrhea; serious side effects while taking Aztreonam are allergic reactions (swelling of face, tongue, throat, or lips, difficulty breathing, or swallowing ), injection site reactions (swelling, pain, itchiness, redness) or rashes.
Warnings
Do not take Aztreonam if you are allergic to Aztreonam and its other ingredients. Before starting the treatment, inform your doctor if you have a liver or kidney condition, a blood disorder (e.g., pancytopenia - reduced blood cells), a skin disorder, positive for antiglobulin (coombâs) test, fits (a sudden, violent, irregular movement of the body). Notify your doctor if previous antibiotic use or stomach/intestinal issues have caused diarrhea and you develop severe, prolonged, or bloody diarrhea while taking Aztreonam. Inform your doctor immediately, as it may be necessary to discontinue the treatment.
Precautions
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or think you may be pregnant or breastfeeding. Kidney patients should take Aztreonam cautiously and inform their doctor about all the underlying medical conditions. Also, in such cases, dose adjustment will be advised. Notify your doctor if you are consuming antibiotics or anticoagulants (blood clots). Suppose you experience encephalopathy (A condition characterized by impaired brain function).
Word of Advice
Do not discontinue Aztreonam unless your doctor advises you to do so. Inform your doctor if you experience any serious adverse effects. Your doctor may adjust your dose or discontinue treatment. Before starting Aztreonam, inform your doctor of your child's age, as dosage varies based on body weight. Your doctor will advise if dose adjustments are necessary. Contact your doctor for additional information. Store out of reach of children and pets. Do not freeze. Do not store above 25°C. Inform your doctor if you experience seizures, altered mental function, unexplained confusion, or weakness.
References
Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Unlimited Company, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [Revised on March 2022] [ Accessed on 29th May 2023], Patient Information Leaflet (medicines.org.uk) Bristol-Myers Squibb Company , US Food and Drug Administration, [ Accessed on 29th May 2023], Azactam (aztreonam) injection label (fda.gov)
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I manage diarrhea while taking Aztreonam?
If you experience diarrhea while taking Aztreonam, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Your medical professional may also recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications to help manage your diarrhea. If your diarrhea is severe or persistent, you should contact your doctor.
How long should I take Aztreonam injection?
Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking Aztreonam if your doctor advises you to stop.
Are there any serious side effects of Aztreonam I should be aware of?
Yes, side effects of Aztreonam may include severe allergic reactions and liver or kidney problems. It is mandatory to seek medical attention if you experience any side effects such as difficulty in breathing, swelling, nausea, and rashes.
When should I contact my doctor while taking Aztreonam?
Notify your medical professional if you experience any side effects of Aztreonam, especially allergic reactions with swelling of the face, tongue, throat, or lips, difficulty in breathing or swallowing, and diarrhea.
Can I use an Aztreonam for children?
Aztreonam can be used in children, but before starting the treatment, inform your childrenâs age to physician because the dosage will differ based on the weight.