Why is this medication prescribed?

Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection is prescribed to treat complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAI) and complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI), including pyelonephritis. It is typically used when other treatments are not suitable or have not been effective due to resistance or other factors.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection is typically used:

• Prescription: Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection is prescribed by healthcare providers for specific types of infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
• Administration: It is administered intravenously (IV) by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinical setting. The dosage and duration of treatment will be determined by the severity of the infection, the patient’s medical condition, and susceptibility of the infecting bacteria.
• Dosage: The dosage can vary, but typical adult doses are 1.5 grams (ceftolozane 1 gram and tazobactam 0.5 grams) administered over 1 hour every 8 hours.
• Duration: The duration of treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection. It is usually continued until the patient has shown significant improvement and is clinically stable.
• Monitoring: Patients receiving Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection should be monitored for any signs of allergic reactions or adverse effects during treatment.
• Follow-up: It’s important for patients to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by their healthcare provider, even if they start to feel better before finishing the medication.

Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the specific guidance on the medication label.

Other uses for this medicine

Besides treating complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAI) and complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI), Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection may also be used for other serious bacterial infections when the infecting organisms are susceptible to this medication. These could include infections like hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), and infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have had any allergic reactions to ceftolozane, tazobactam, or any other medications in the past. This is crucial to prevent allergic reactions during treatment.
• Kidney Function: Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection is primarily eliminated through the kidneys. If you have impaired kidney function, your dosage may need adjustment. Your healthcare provider will monitor your kidney function closely during treatment.
• Neurological Effects: Some patients receiving beta-lactam antibiotics, including ceftolozane and tazobactam, have reported neurological effects such as seizures. If you have a history of seizures or other neurological conditions, discuss this with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of using Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The potential benefits should outweigh the risks to the fetus or infant.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection, affecting how it works or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Resistance and Superinfection: Antibiotic use, including ceftolozane and tazobactam, can lead to the development of resistant bacteria. It is important to use this medication only as prescribed and to complete the full course of treatment to reduce the risk of developing resistant infections. If a new infection occurs during or after treatment, inform your healthcare provider.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of your clinical condition, blood tests (including kidney function tests), and other parameters may be necessary during treatment to ensure the medication is working effectively and safely.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask any questions you may have about Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection and its potential side effects or precautions.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection. However, it is always advisable to maintain a balanced diet and adequate fluid intake to support overall health and aid in recovery from infections.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection, it is important to take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary. Here are some potential side effects associated with Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness)
• Serious Side Effects (Rare, but may occur):
  • Severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling of the face/tongue/throat, rash)
  • Severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis)
  • Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (can range from mild diarrhea to life-threatening colitis)
  • Liver problems (elevated liver enzymes)
  • Kidney problems (rare cases of acute kidney injury)
• Neurological Effects (Rare): Seizures (especially in patients with a history of seizures or certain neurological conditions)
• Hematologic Effects (Rare): Blood disorders such as thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) or leukopenia (low white blood cell count)
• Other Effects: Use of antibiotics like Ceftolozane and Tazobactam can lead to overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, potentially causing secondary infections.

It’s important to note that not all possible side effects are listed here. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while receiving Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection, promptly inform your healthcare provider. They can assess the symptoms and decide whether any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.

As with any medication, the benefits of Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection in treating infections should be carefully weighed against the potential risks of side effects.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection:

Storage:

• Storage Conditions: Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection should be stored at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F).
• Protect from Light: Protect the vials from light. Store in the original package until ready for use.
• Do Not Freeze: Do not freeze Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection.
• Single Use: Each vial is for single use only. Discard any unused portion of the medication properly.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection in a secure place out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Unused Medication: Dispose of any unused Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection properly according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush down the toilet or pour down the drain unless specifically instructed to do so.
• Sharps Disposal: Dispose of needles, syringes, and other sharps in an appropriate sharps container to prevent accidental needle sticks.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms of Overdose: If you suspect an overdose of Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection, seek immediate medical attention. Overdose symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and neurological symptoms such as seizures.
• Management: Management of overdose typically involves supportive care and monitoring of vital signs. Activated charcoal may be considered if ingestion was recent and significant.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Instructions: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the administration and duration of Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection treatment. Complete the full course of medication as prescribed, even if you start to feel better.
• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may perform regular tests to monitor your response to treatment, including blood tests to check kidney and liver function.
• Allergic Reactions: Be aware of signs of allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are receiving Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection, especially if you are scheduled for any surgical procedures or if you need to take other medications.
• Keep Appointments: Keep all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and evaluation during and after treatment.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about Ceftolozane and Tazobactam Injection, its storage, administration, or potential side effects.