ceftazidime

Ceftazidime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat serious infections caused by susceptible bacteria. It is a beta-lactam antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to bacterial lysis. It is typically administered by intravenous infusion or intramuscular injection and is not active when taken orally.

Spectrum-wise, ceftazidime has robust activity against many Gram-negative bacteria, especially Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacteriaceae, but its activity against Gram-positive cocci is limited and it is not reliably active against Staphylococcus aureus or Enterococcus species. It has little anaerobic activity.

Pharmacokinetics and administration: Ceftazidime is eliminated primarily by the kidneys, with dose adjustments needed in renal impairment. In individuals with normal renal function, the plasma half-life is about two hours. It penetrates cerebrospinal fluid poorly except in meningitis, where penetration improves.

Clinical use: It is employed for treatment of severe hospital-acquired or complicated infections caused by susceptible Gram-negative organisms, including pneumonia, intra-abdominal infections, complicated urinary tract infections, sepsis, and gynecologic infections. Choice of therapy is guided by local susceptibility data and patient-specific factors.

Resistance and safety: Bacteria producing certain beta-lactamases can hydrolyze ceftazidime, and resistance may emerge with prior cephalosporin exposure. Common adverse effects include allergic reactions, rash, diarrhea, and electrolyte disturbances; high-dose therapy in renal impairment can cause neurotoxicity such as confusion or seizures. Potential interactions exist with nephrotoxic agents and with anticoagulants, so monitoring is advised.