Cefazolin Sodium

A potent, broad spectrum, bactericidal semisynthetic cephalosporin antibiotic for parenteral administration,in lyophilized form. LYOPHILIZED drug is stable for atleast 2 years when stored at room temperature (250c). After reconstitution, the solution should be stored in a refrigerator and used within 96 hours. If stored at room temperature then within 24 hours.

Indications

Respiratory tract infection, post-operative chest infections,empyema and lung abscess. Urinary tract infections (pyelonephritis). Soft tissue and skin infection (infected gangrene, otitis media and mastoiditis, peritonitis and wound infections Septicaemia, whether gram-positive or gram-negative Endocarditis, gynaecological and obstetrical infections (Septic abortion, uterine and neonatal infection, pelvic abscess). Gonorrhoea or syphilis. Bone and joint infections (osteomyelitis and septic arthr

Dosage

Adults: 500 -1gm i.m. or i.v. 6-8 hourly. Children: below 1 month not recomended; others 25-50 mg/kg body wt daily in 3-4 divided doses by either i.m. or i.v.

Contra-Indications

Patients with known allergy to cephalosporin group. Pseudomembranous colitis. Use in premature and infants under 1 month of age has not been established.

Special Precautions

Hypersensitivity to penicillins, Impaired renal function. Paediatrics: Safety in infants in less than 1 months not established. Pregnancy: Safe. Lactation: Use with caution. Elderly: Safe.

Side Effects

G.I.T. upsets, allergic reactions, depressed haematopoiesis, transient rise of SGPT, BUN, SGOT, Perineal pruritus, candidosis, convulsions, eosinophilia, thrombocythemia.

Drug Interactions

Concurrent use of cephazoline and frusemide increases risk of nephrotoxicity. Potentiates nephrotoxicity produced by aminoglycosides. Prothrombin time prolonged by cephazoline and caution necessary if used with anticoagulants. Probenecid blocks tubular secretion of cephazolin thereby prolonging half-life.