Health Library

Ceftazidime (By injection)

Ceftazidime (sef-TAZ-i-deem)

Treats infections caused by bacteria. This medicine is a cephalosporin antibiotic.

Brand Name(s):

Fortaz, Tazicef

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• An IM injection is a shot given in your muscle. An IV infusion is medicine that is put directly into your body through one of your veins.
• A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Check the IV medicine bag before use to make sure there are no leaks and that the solution is clear.
• Missed dose: You must use this medicine on a fixed schedule. Call your doctor or pharmacist if you miss a dose.
• If you store this medicine at home, keep it in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Take the medicine out of the refrigerator an hour before the time for your next dose. Allow the medicine to warm to room temperature in a clean, dry place.
• Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how ceftazidime works. Tell your doctor if you are taking chloramphenicol, a diuretic (water pill), or an aminoglycoside.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you had an allergic reaction to penicillin, you have kidney disease, liver disease, weak immune system, or you have a history of stomach or intestinal problems, including colitis.
• This medicine may prevent birth control pills from working correctly. Use a second form of birth control while you are using this medicine.
• This medicine can cause diarrhea. Call your doctor if the diarrhea becomes severe, does not stop, or is bloody. Do not take any medicine to stop diarrhea until you have talked to your doctor. Diarrhea can occur 2 months or more after you stop taking this medicine.
• Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
• Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blistering, peeling, red rash
• Diarrhea that may contain blood
• Severe vomiting or stomach pain
• Swelling, pain, or redness near where your IV is located

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Pain where the IM shot was given

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024