Tazicef (Ceftazidime Pentahydrate Injection) is an antibiotic used to treat a variety of serious bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Gram-negative bacteria. It is effective against infections in the respiratory tract, urinary tract, skin, abdomen, and the central nervous system, including meningitis. Tazicef works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to cell death. It is often administered intravenously in hospital settings to manage severe and resistant infections.

Tazicef (Ceftazidime Pentahydrate Injection) is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, particularly those caused by gram-negative bacteria, including severe or complicated infections such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and certain types of meningitis. This product is formulated by Pfizer Injectables and comes in vials containing 1 gram of ceftazidime, typically packaged in packs of 25 vials.

Details and Features

Active Ingredient: Ceftazidime (as ceftazidime pentahydrate)
Strength: 1 gram per vial
Packaging: 25 vials per pack
Formulation: Sterile powder for reconstitution before intravenous or intramuscular administration
Administration: Reconstituted solution intended for IV or IM use
Manufacturer: Pfizer Injectables
Purpose: Treatment of severe bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms

Mechanism of Action

Ceftazidime acts by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) within the bacterial cell wall, leading to the inhibition of the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis. This results in the weakening of the cell wall and subsequent cell lysis and death. Due to its structure, Tazicef is particularly effective against a broad spectrum of gram-negative pathogens, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Warnings

• Allergic Reactions: Contraindicated in patients who have exhibited hypersensitivity to ceftazidime, other cephalosporins, or severe hypersensitivity to penicillins or other beta-lactams.
  
• Renal Impairment: Dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with compromised renal function to prevent toxicity.
  
• Superinfection Risk: As with other antibiotics, prolonged use may result in superinfection, including fungal or bacterial, with resistant organisms.
  
• Clostridium difficile-associated Diarrhea (CDAD): Considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use; discontinue Tazicef if suspected.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Injection site reactions (pain, swelling)
  
• Rash or allergic dermatitis
  
• Nausea or vomiting
  
• Diarrhea

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis, angioedema, bronchospasm)
  Colitis, particularly Clostridioides difficile-associated colitis.
  
• Neutropenia or thrombocytopenia particularly with prolonged therapy
  Hepatic dysfunction (elevations in liver enzymes).

Administration and Monitoring

Tazicef is intended for administration by intravenous infusion or intramuscular injection, with the dosage and frequency determined based on the severity of the infection, renal function, and pathogen susceptibility. Patients should be closely monitored for any signs of allergic reactions, especially during the first dose. Renal function tests are recommended periodically during prolonged therapy, particularly in patients with preexisting renal conditions. Monitoring for potential superinfections and ensuring total patient hydration can help mitigate some of the associated risks of antibiotic therapy.