Why is this medication prescribed?

Fortaz, also known by its generic name ceftazidime, is a prescription antibiotic medication primarily used to treat bacterial infections. It belongs to a class of antibiotics called cephalosporins, which work by inhibiting the growth of bacteria or by killing them outright.

Fortaz is commonly prescribed to treat various types of infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including:

• Respiratory tract infections: Fortaz may be used to treat pneumonia, bronchitis, and other respiratory infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): It can be effective against UTIs caused by susceptible bacteria, including complicated UTIs.
• Skin and soft tissue infections: Fortaz may be used to treat infections of the skin, wounds, and soft tissues caused by susceptible bacteria.
• Intra-abdominal infections: Fortaz can be used to treat intra-abdominal infections, such as peritonitis, caused by susceptible bacteria.
• Septicemia: Fortaz may be prescribed to treat septicemia (bloodstream infection) caused by susceptible bacteria.

How should this medicine be used?

Fortaz (ceftazidime) should be used exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. It’s essential to follow the dosing instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Below are general guidelines for using Fortaz:

• Dosage: The dosage of Fortaz prescribed will depend on various factors, including the type and severity of the infection, the patient’s age, weight, and overall health. Always take the medication as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Administration: Fortaz is typically administered intravenously (IV) or via intramuscular (IM) injection. It is usually given in a healthcare setting such as a hospital or clinic by a trained healthcare professional.
• Frequency: The frequency of administration will depend on the specific dosage prescribed and the type of infection being treated. Fortaz may be given multiple times per day, typically every 8 to 12 hours, but this can vary based on the individual patient’s needs.
• Duration: The duration of treatment with Fortaz will also depend on the type and severity of the infection. It’s important to complete the full course of treatment, even if you start feeling better before the medication is finished. Stopping the medication early could lead to the return of the infection or the development of antibiotic resistance.
• Storage: Store Fortaz as directed by your pharmacist or healthcare provider. It is usually stored at room temperature away from light and moisture. Follow any specific storage instructions provided with your medication.
• Reconstitution: If Fortaz is provided in a powdered form for reconstitution before administration, follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist carefully. This typically involves mixing the powder with a specific diluent (such as sterile water) to prepare the solution for injection.
• Precautions: Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies you have, especially to antibiotics or cephalosporins. Also, inform them about any other medications, supplements, or medical conditions you have before starting Fortaz.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may monitor you closely while you are receiving Fortaz to ensure it is working effectively and to watch for any potential side effects.

It’s crucial to never adjust your dosage or stop taking Fortaz without consulting your healthcare provider first. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Fortaz, be sure to discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other uses for this medicine

Some other off-label uses, including:

• Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis: Ceftazidime may be used in combination with other antibiotics to treat respiratory infections in patients with cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system.
• Prophylaxis in Surgery: In some cases, Fortaz may be used as a prophylactic antibiotic to prevent surgical site infections in certain types of surgeries.
• Treatment of Neutropenic Fever: Ceftazidime may be used in combination with other antibiotics to treat febrile neutropenia, a condition characterized by fever and low white blood cell count, often seen in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

What special precautions should I follow?

Now, regarding special precautions to follow while using Fortaz:

• Allergy and Hypersensitivity: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies to cephalosporin antibiotics or any other medications. If you have a history of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to beta-lactam antibiotics (such as penicillins or cephalosporins), you may be at an increased risk of allergic reactions to Fortaz.
• Renal Impairment: If you have kidney problems or impaired renal function, your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dosage of Fortaz accordingly. Ceftazidime is primarily excreted by the kidneys, so dosage adjustments may be necessary to prevent drug accumulation and potential toxicity.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. While there are limited studies on the use of ceftazidime during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is generally considered safe to use when the benefits outweigh the risks. Your healthcare provider will assess the risks and benefits and determine whether Fortaz is appropriate for you in these situations.
• Superinfection: Antibiotic use, including Fortaz, can sometimes lead to the overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms, such as Clostridium difficile, resulting in a secondary infection known as pseudomembranous colitis. If you experience severe diarrhea or abdominal pain while taking Fortaz, inform your healthcare provider immediately.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as Fortaz may interact with certain medications. For example, probenecid, a medication used to treat gout, may increase the concentration of ceftazidime in the blood by reducing its elimination.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and advice regarding the use of Fortaz, and do not hesitate to ask any questions or express concerns you may have about its use.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Fortaz. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated while taking antibiotics to support the body’s immune system and recovery process.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you miss a dose of Fortaz, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
• If you are unsure about what to do, or if you miss multiple doses, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Fortaz (ceftazidime) may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Fortaz can include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness)
• Skin rash or itching
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Changes in taste
• Vaginal itching or discharge

These side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider.

In some cases, Fortaz may cause more severe side effects that require immediate medical attention. These can include:

• Severe diarrhea or bloody stools, which may indicate a serious intestinal condition known as pseudomembranous colitis
• Severe skin reactions, such as blistering or peeling of the skin, which may indicate a serious allergic reaction
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, which may indicate a severe allergic reaction
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), which may indicate liver problems
• Signs of a new infection, such as fever or chills
• Severe or persistent headache, confusion, or vision changes

It’s essential to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these severe side effects while taking Fortaz.

This list may not include all possible side effects of Fortaz. If you have concerns about side effects or notice any symptoms that worry you, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. Additionally, report any side effects to the FDA or your country’s regulatory agency for medication safety.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Store Fortaz vials or solution for injection at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Do not freeze Fortaz.
• Keep Fortaz out of reach of children and pets.
• If your healthcare provider advises you to stop using Fortaz or if it expires, dispose of it properly according to local guidelines or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an overdose of Fortaz, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
• Overdose symptoms may include seizures, confusion, muscle twitching, weakness, or vomiting.

What other information should I know?

• Finish the entire course of Fortaz as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better. Stopping the medication prematurely may lead to the return of the infection or the development of antibiotic resistance.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as well as any medical conditions you have, before starting Fortaz.
• Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and evaluation of your response to Fortaz therapy.
• If you develop diarrhea while taking Fortaz, especially if it is severe or persistent, contact your healthcare provider, as it may be a sign of a serious intestinal condition.
• Use Fortaz only for the condition for which it was prescribed. Do not share Fortaz with others, and do not use it for other conditions unless directed by your healthcare provider.

Following these guidelines can help ensure the safe and effective use of Fortaz. If you have any questions or concerns about Fortaz or its use, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further guidance.