Cefazolin
Cefazolin is a first generation semisynthetic analogue of natural cephalosporin C antibiotic. Cephalosporins are derivatives of 7-aminocephalosporic acid and are closely related to penicillins in structure. Cephalosporins have a six membered sulfur containing ring adjoining a ß lactam ring. Cefazolin is very active against wide range of gram positive and gram negative bacteria. Cefazolin is used in the treatment of a variety of infections such as biliary tract infections, endocarditis and peritonitis. Antibiotics require constant drug level in body for therapeutic effect.This is achieved by taking the medication at regular interval of time throughout the day and night as prescribed. Cefazolin is important to take the drug for the full time period as prescribed. If you discontinue the therapy, it may result in ineffective treatment.
Primary Characteristics
Cefazolin is also known as Cefazolin Sodium.
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Cephem Carboxylic Acid.
It belongs to Peptidoglycan synthesis inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antibiotic, Cephalosporin pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 454.5 · pKa: 2.1 · Solubility in Water: high · Solubility in Alcohol: slight · Non-proprietary name: Cefazolin.
Pharmacokinetics
Distribution: Cefazolin has a volume of distribution is 9.2 l/1.73 sq.meter. plasma protein binding is 70-86%.
Elimination: plasma half-life is 1.6-2.2 hr, renal excretion is 80%.
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Indications
Cefazolin is primarily indicated in conditions like Arrhythmias after myocardial infarction, Biliary tract infections, Bone and joint infection, Endocarditis, Genitourinary tract infections, Persistant neutropenia in advanced hiv infection, Prostatitis, Respiratory tract infections, Septicaemia, Skin infections, Surgical prophylaxis, Urinary tract infection.
Cefazolin is also indicated for secondary conditions like Surgical infections.
Contraindications
Cefazolin is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Cefazolin's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 1250 mg | 1250 mg | Every 8h | IV,IM | Max.Dose 12 g/day |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 25 mg/kg | 25 mg/kg | Every 8h | Intra Muscular | - |
| 25 mg/kg | 25 mg/kg | Every 8h | Intra Venous | - |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 25 mg/kg | 25 mg/kg | Every 8h | Intra Muscular | - |
| 25 mg/kg | 25 mg/kg | Every 8h | Intra Venous | - |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Cefazolin in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Hemolytic anemia , Gi bleeding , Bone marrow depression , Candidiasis superinfections , Pseudomembranous colitis .
Cefazolin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Anorexia , Chills, Diarrhea, Fever, Glossitis, Paresthesias, Pruritus .
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.2.1.3 — Cephalosporins