Ceftazidime
Group
Third-generation Cephalosporin
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), causing cell lysis. Active against many Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Indications
- Pseudomonal infections
- Severe Gram-negative infections (UTI, pneumonia, sepsis)
- Febrile neutropenia
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Bone and joint infections
- Meningitis (in combination therapy)
Dose
- Adults: 1–2 g IV/IM every 8–12 hours (max 12 g/day)
- Children: 30–50 mg/kg/dose IV/IM every 8–12 hours
- Adjust dose in renal impairment
Major Side Effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
- Rash
- Thrombophlebitis at injection site
- Rare: Hematologic effects (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia)
- Superinfection with prolonged therapy
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cephalosporins
- Caution in penicillin-allergic patients
Compatible Fluid
- 0.9% Sodium chloride (normal saline)
- 5% Dextrose (Dextrose 5% in water)
Route of Administration
Intravenous (IV) or Intramuscular (IM)
Type of Administration
Parenteral injection (IV/IM)