TAZOBACTAM,CEFTAZIDIME
Background and Date of Approval
Ceftazidime and tazobactam received US FDA approval in 1994 for treatment of various bacterial infections. Ceftazidime is a cephalosporin antibiotic demonstrating activity against Gram-negative bacteria. Tazobactam functions as a beta-lactamase inhibitor, augmenting ceftazidime's efficacy by shielding it from degradation by specific beta-lactamase enzymes that bacteria produce.
Uses
Tazobactam and ceftazidime is used for the treatment of infections of the lungs, skin and skin structures, urinary tract, abdomen, brain, spinal cord, blood, ear, and female genital tract, prevents infections during prostate surgery and in treating febrile neutropenia.
How is it administered?
Tazobactam and ceftazidime are available in one injection dosage form with concentration of ceftazidime at 1 gram and tazobactam at 125 mg respectively. It is given by a doctor or nurse into a vein and should not be self-administered. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition.
Side Effects
Like any other drug, tazobactam and ceftazidime also have some side effects. The most common side effects people may experience are Diarrhea, Swelling and redness along a vein, Itchiness, Pain, burning, swelling, or inflammation at the injection site, Increased levels of eosinophils (type of white blood cells), Increase in the number of cells that help the blood to clot and Increased level of liver enzymes. Keep an eye out for these signs and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of them while receiving therapy.
Warnings
It is not recommended to take this medication if you are allergic to the active substance tazobactam and ceftazidime and its components. Extended usage could lead to the proliferation of insensitive species, such as fungus. If superinfection happens, take the necessary actions into account.There have been reports of elevated liver enzymes. Those with hepatic impairment should have their liver function monitored.Since the medicine is mostly eliminated through the kidneys, caution is recommended in patients with renal impairment. Reductions in dosage can be required depending on renal function.
Precautions
Tell your doctor if you are nursing a baby, intend to get pregnant, or are already pregnant. Your healthcare team will carefully assess whether to use the medicine during lactation and pregnancy. During therapy, it's critical to be well hydrated, especially since some medications may require fluid administration. By doing this, such adverse effects may be avoided..Furthermore, avoid using machinery or driving while receiving therapy if you feel lightheaded, and consult your doctor right away. It is really important to be safe, so make sure you discuss any concerns you may have with your healthcare professional.
Word of Advice
Inform your doctor if you are undergoing blood or urine tests for glucose levels, as this medicine may affect the results. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience a severe allergic reaction characterised by itchy rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing. It is advisable to consume adequate water and take electrolytes to replace losses from diarrhoea.
References
Wockhardt UK Limited, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Nov 2021] [Accessed on 16 Dec 2023], 103276-8.pdf (medicines.org.uk) Wockhardt UK Ltd, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on June 2021] [Accessed on 16 Dec 2023], 106648-6.pdf (medicines.org.uk) KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Beta-Lactam Antibiotics, 7th edition, 2013,725. Goodman & Gilmanâs, The Pharmacological Basics of Therapeutics, Penicillins, Cephalosporins and other Beta-Lactam Antibiotics, 12th edition, 2011, 1498.
Frequently Asked Questions
What precautions should I take while on tazobactam + ceftazidime injection?
Inform your doctor immediately if you have a severe allergic reaction like itchy rash, swelling, and difficulty in breathing.
Can I drive when I take tazobactam + ceftazidime injection?
Tazobactam + ceftazidime injection may cause drowsiness in the patient while under medication. So, it is recommended to consult your doctor before handling vehicles and machinery.
Can I take tazobactam + ceftazidime injection if I am restricted to salt?
Tell your physician if you are on a salt-controlled diet. tazobactam + ceftazidime injection has sodium salt as an ingredient in them.
Can I take tazobactam + ceftazidime injection medication if I have kidney problems?
Kidney patients should be cautious while taking the medicine. Consult your doctor for further details.
What is the purpose of tazobactam + ceftazidime injection?
Tazobactam + ceftazidime injection is used to treat bacterial infections of the lungs, skin and skin structures, urinary tract, abdomen, brain, spinal cord, blood, ear, and female genital tract. It prevents infections during prostate surgery in men. It can also be used in the management of neutropenic patients (patients with decreased white blood cells) with fever, which is suspected to be caused by bacterial infection.