| Common Brands | Ancef (brand name no longer available) |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
Cephalosporin antibiotic |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Cefazolin is a type of first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic primarily used in treating bacterial infections. It is administered intramuscularly, and this drug is broad-spectrum, meaning that it acts on various kinds of infections caused by bacteria, affecting the respiratory system, skin, bones, joints, and the urinary system.
Cefazolin inhibits the synthesis of the cell wall of bacteria, hence destroying the bacteria. This drug is commonly used in hospitals for major infections and is very potent with less toxicity.
Healthcare providers give cefazolin as an intravenous or intramuscular injection. Some general guidelines for the administration of cefazolin follow:
Intravenous Administration: Cefazolin is usually diluted in an appropriate fluid and given over a period of 30 minutes or more. It may be infused with a drip or infusion pump.
Intramuscular (IM) injection: Cefazolin can be injected into large muscles, which are usually located in the thigh or buttocks. The injection should be done carefully to avoid tissue damage.
Patients on cefazolin must be treated until a full course is complete because they might feel well at the end of this but before finishing the medication. Cessation of the drugs at an inappropriate time is one of the major sources of incomplete eradication and, as a result, selection of resistant organisms.
It inhibits the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. Bacteria rely on their cell walls for structural integrity, and when the cell wall cannot be properly formed, the bacteria become weak and eventually rupture. Cefazolin binds to specific proteins known as penicillin-binding proteins in the bacterial cell wall, thereby inhibiting the functioning of PBPs and preventing the cell from constructing a strong wall.
This renders cefazolin effective against gram-positive organisms, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae, and certain gram-negative organisms, including Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis. However, it is not effective against all the types of bacteria, and overuse or misuse can develop resistance.
General adverse effects of cefazolin are:
Hypersensitivities: They vary from a simple macular rash with pruritus to full anaphylaxis that comes as swelling of the face and difficulty breathing.
Hypersensitivity is not present alone; nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea occur more commonly.
Injection site reactions: Pain, swelling, and redness at the site of injection (whether intravenous or intramuscular) can occur.
Elevated liver enzymes: In rare cases, cefazolin may cause liver function abnormalities, which can be monitored through blood tests.
Nephrotoxicity: Though rare, cefazolin can cause kidney damage, especially when used in combination with other nephrotoxic drugs.
Serious adverse effects, including life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), require immediate treatment, and medical professionals should be notified.
Penicillin or cephalosporins allergy: You are likely to have reactions to cefazolin, if you are allergic to penicillins or other cephalosporin antibiotics. Tell your healthcare professional of such known allergies before initiating the administration of cefazolin.
Kidney disease: Because the renal excretion of cefazolin is so prominent, this agent must be used cautiously in patients with impaired renal function. Dose modifications are sometimes necessary for patients with reduced renal function.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Cefazolin is a pregnancy category B drug, which means it is considered safe for use during pregnancy but should only be used if absolutely necessary. It is also excreted in breast milk; thus, caution is taken when using the drug during breastfeeding.
Superinfection: Prolonged use of cefazolin leads to superinfections or growth of non-susceptible organisms. Additional treatment may be necessary.
Cefazolin interacts with a variety of drugs. The most significant interactions involve the following drugs:
Probenecid: The drug, which is given for gout, reduces cefazolin elimination by the body and increases blood levels, possibly causing toxic levels.
Aminoglycosides, such as gentamicin: Administration of cefazolin in combination with aminoglycosides elevates the possibility of nephrotoxicity or damage to the kidneys.
Oral anticoagulants (such as warfarin): The administration of cefazolin enhances the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, which raises the potential for bleeding.
Diuretics (such as furosemide): Administration with cefazolin may augment the risk of renal complications
Notify your prescriber of any other prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins and dietary supplements, to reduce the possibility of drug interactions.
The dosage of cefazolin is based on the infection being treated, the severity of the infection, and the patient’s renal function. Typical adult dosages include the following:
Duration of treatment is usually given based on the type of infection and its severity, so it may last from just a few days to as long as weeks in severer cases.
Cefazolin is a prescription medicine that should be administered in a clinical or hospital setup. A healthcare provider needs to evaluate the patient’s past medical history, current state, and potential drug interaction before prescribing cefazolin. Cefazolin should only be used after confirmation or strong suspicion of a bacterial infection to avoid overuse and resistance.
Cefazolin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic administered by injection.
It treats serious bacterial infections including skin, bone, respiratory, urinary tract, and bloodstream infections.
It kills bacteria by disrupting their cell wall, causing bacterial death.
By intramuscular (IM) or intravenous (IV) injection.
Dosage varies by infection type and severity; generally 1 to 2 grams every 8 hours.
Yes, it is commonly given before surgery to prevent infections.
Pain or irritation at injection site, rash, nausea, and diarrhea.
Yes, especially in patients allergic to penicillins or other cephalosporins.
Generally considered safe, but only use if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor.
Treatment duration depends on infection severity; typically 7-14 days or as directed.
Yes, reconstituted solutions may require refrigeration; store powder at room temperature before use.
Yes, with dosage adjustments based on weight and age.
Inform your healthcare provider; do not double the next dose without advice.
It can affect kidneys; monitoring is needed in patients with kidney issues.
Yes, especially with nephrotoxic drugs and blood thinners; inform your doctor.
It starts working promptly after administration, typically within hours.
No, Cefazolin is not effective against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
Monitor for allergic reactions and kidney function; report any unusual symptoms.
Yes, cross-reactivity can occur but the risk is low.
Store powder at room temperature; protect reconstituted solutions per instructions.
Seborrheic dermatitis is a widespread chronic inflammatory skin disorder that primarily affects the head, scalp, and upper trunk, which are areas rich in sebaceous glands. Despite not being a fatal illness, the chronic nature of the disorder and its frequent flare-ups can greatly lower the person’s standard of life. The goal of this thorough investigation
For a considerable time, both scientists and medical experts have been fascinated by the connection between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. The gut-brain axis is a concept that has emerged from emerging research that highlights the deep relationship between both of these seemingly different organs. We will explore the elements, functions, and consequences associated
Food intolerances are becoming more widely acknowledged as serious health issues impacting people all over the world. In contrast to food allergies, which are immune system-related, food intolerances usually refer to the body’s incapacity to properly digest specific substances or dietary ingredients. This thorough review explores several kinds of food intolerances, such as fructose malabsorption,
