Why is this medication prescribed?

Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection is prescribed to treat certain bacterial infections. Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection is prescribed for the treatment of complicated intra-abdominal infections, complicated urinary tract infections, and hospital-acquired pneumonia, including ventilator-associated pneumonia. It is particularly useful when other antibiotics may not be effective due to resistance.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection should typically be used:

• Dosage: The dosage and frequency of administration will depend on the severity of the infection, the specific bacteria causing it, and the patient’s overall health. It is usually administered intravenously (IV) by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting.
• Administration: The medication is diluted in a compatible IV solution and administered slowly over a period of time, as directed by the healthcare provider. The infusion time can vary but is generally over 2 hours.
• Duration: The duration of treatment with Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection will also vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. It is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before the treatment is completed.
• Precautions: Before using Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection, inform your healthcare provider about any allergies, other medications you are taking (especially other antibiotics or medications that affect kidney function), and any medical conditions you have, particularly kidney disease.
• Monitoring: During treatment, your healthcare provider may monitor you closely for any signs of allergic reactions or side effects. They may also perform periodic tests to monitor your kidney function, as this medication can affect renal function in some patients.
• Storage: The injection should be stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually at room temperature away from light and moisture.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and do not adjust your dosage or stop the medication without consulting them first.

Other uses for this medicine

Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection is primarily used for complicated infections caused by specific bacteria, such as:

• Complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI)
• Complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAI)
• Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), including ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP)

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for using Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to ceftazidime, avibactam, other beta-lactam antibiotics (such as penicillins or cephalosporins), or any other medications.
• Medical Conditions: Notify your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially kidney disease, as dose adjustments may be necessary.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your healthcare provider the risks and benefits of using Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as some medications may interact with Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may monitor your kidney function regularly during treatment, as this medication can affect renal function in some patients.
• Infusion Reactions: Since Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection is administered intravenously, there is a risk of infusion-related reactions. Your healthcare provider will monitor you closely during administration for any signs of allergic reactions or adverse effects.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and do not adjust your dosage or stop the medication without consulting them first.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are typically no specific dietary restrictions associated with Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection. However, it’s essential to maintain good hydration during treatment, especially if you are at risk of kidney problems. Drinking plenty of fluids can help ensure adequate kidney function and the proper elimination of the medication from your body.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection, it’s important to receive it as soon as possible. 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 up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. Some of the common and potentially serious side effects include:

• Allergic Reactions: This can range from mild rash and itching to severe reactions like swelling of the face, throat, or tongue, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention).
• Gastrointestinal Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain are common side effects. Severe diarrhea could be a sign of a Clostridium difficile infection, which may require treatment.
• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site can occur.
• Changes in Blood Tests: Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection can affect certain blood tests, such as liver function tests and blood cell counts.
• Kidney Effects: This medication can sometimes cause kidney problems, including acute kidney injury. Your healthcare provider may monitor your kidney function during treatment.
• Central Nervous System Effects: Headache, dizziness, and confusion have been reported in some patients.
• Liver Problems: Elevated liver enzymes and liver function abnormalities can occur.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Changes in electrolyte levels, such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium, may occur.
• Clostridium difficile-associated Diarrhea: This is a severe form of diarrhea caused by the overgrowth of a bacteria called Clostridium difficile, which can sometimes be associated with antibiotic use.
• Other Reactions: Rarely, Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection can cause seizures, abnormal heart rhythms, or other serious reactions.

It’s important to report any unusual or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly. They can help manage side effects and determine if any adjustments to your treatment plan are needed. If you experience a severe allergic reaction or any other serious side effect, seek immediate medical attention.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection should be stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, it should be stored at room temperature (around 20-25°C or 68-77°F), away from light and moisture. Avoid freezing the medication. The specific storage conditions may vary, so always refer to the label or package insert for detailed instructions.
• Handling: Healthcare professionals should handle and administer Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection using aseptic technique to prevent contamination.
• Disposal: Unused portions of the medication should be disposed of properly according to local regulations. Your healthcare provider or pharmacist can provide guidance on the proper disposal of unused medications. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Help: Immediately contact your local emergency services (such as 911) or go to the nearest emergency room if you suspect an overdose. Be prepared to provide information about the medication, the amount taken (if known), and any symptoms experienced.
• Symptom Management: Management of overdose typically involves supportive care and symptomatic treatment. Your healthcare provider will assess your condition and provide appropriate medical interventions as needed.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: During treatment with Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection, your healthcare provider may monitor you closely for effectiveness of treatment and for any potential side effects or complications, such as changes in kidney function.
• Follow-up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider. Regular follow-up is important to monitor your response to treatment and to manage any ongoing issues related to your infection or medication.
• Patient Education: Understand the importance of completing the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if you start to feel better before the treatment is finished. This helps prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
• Allergic Reactions: Be aware of signs of allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) and seek immediate medical attention if they occur.
• Storage and Handling: Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets. Store it in a secure location to prevent accidental ingestion.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask any questions you have about Ceftazidime and Avibactam Injection or your treatment plan. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current condition.