Abscess, liver
Ceftazidime

Ceftazidime

High
N/A

General Information

Broad gram-negative coverage including Pseudomonas, generally used for nosocomial infections including post-neurosurgical meningitis, or other infections based on susceptibilities.

Notable lack of gram-positive activity versus other cephalosporins.

Monitor renal function in elderly patients, and when administered concomitantly with aminoglycoside antibiotics, especially with higher dosages of aminoglycosides or prolonged therapy.

Monitor prothrombin time.

Perform periodic susceptibility testing when clinically appropriate.

Common

  • Diarrhea
  • Phlebitis
  • Injection site inflammation

Serious

  • Stevens-Johnson syndrome
  • Toxic epidermal necrolysis
  • Clostridium difficile colitis
  • Anaphylaxis
  • Seizure
  • Warfarin - increased risk of bleeding
  • Cholera vaccine, live
  • Combination oral contraceptives
  • Potential cross-reactivity with aztreonam based on side chain

Antimicrobial class: 3rd Generation Cephalosporin

Pregnancy category: B

Average serum half life: 2 hours

Biliary penetration: Moderate

CSF penetration: Therapeutic

Lung penetration: Therapeutic

Urine penetration: Therapeutic

Precautions:

  • Elevated serum concentrations of ceftazidime as a result of renal impairment may lead to seizures, encephalopathy, coma, asterixis, neuromuscular excitability, or myoclonia; monitoring recommended and dosage adjustment necessary.
  • Use caution in penicillin-sensitive patients, as cross-hypersensitivity has been reported among beta-lactam antibiotics.
  • Use caution in individuals with a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis.

AAC 2017;61:e00464-17