Cefazolin
Molecule Description
Cefazolin is an antibiotic that is useful in the treatment of infections caused
by bacteria.
Uses of Cefazolin
This medicine is primarily utilized in the treatment of pneumonia, biliary tract infections, infection of the inner walls of the heart (endocarditis), bacterial skin infection (cellulitis), urinary tract infections and infections in joints. It can also be used before and during certain surgeries to prevent infection....
Contraindications of Cefazolin
When should one not use Cefazolin
If you have Penicillin allergy (hypersensitivity).
Side effects of Cefazolin
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Headache
- Dark urine
- Easy bruising
- Irregular heartbeat
- Fits, weakness
- Yellowing of eyes or skin
- Mental or mood changes (such as confusion)
Precautions and Warnings of Cefazolin
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Cefazolin during pregnancy?
A:
It is advised to consult a doctor before taking this medicine.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Cefazolin while breastfeeding?
A:
It may pass into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing baby, and the baby should be monitored closely to observe if they show any side effects such as diarrhea or thrush. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Cefazolin?
A:
The drug has a rare side effect of causing dizziness and drowsiness. Hence, you should consult a doctor if you perform some activities that require focus, such as driving.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Cefazolin?
A:
The interaction of Cefazolin with alcohol is unknown. So, you should consult a doctor before consuming any alcohol.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- Talk to your doctor if:
- You have kidney disease or swelling of intestine (colitis)
- You experience dark urine, easy bruising/ bleeding, irregular heartbeat
- It may interfere with any birth control methods, so consult your doctor before you take this medication
Mode of Action of Cefazolin
How Does It Work?
It mainly kills the bacteria unlike other antibiotics which stop bacterial growth. It inhibits cell wall biosynthesis which leads to the bacteria to lyse as their cell walls are continuously broken down....
Interactions of Cefazolin
Interactions with other medicines
- Aminoglycoside antibiotics (like Tobramycin, Gentamicin)
- Blood thinners (Warfarin)
- Chloramphenicol
- Birth control pills, patch or ring
- Antibiotics (such as Rifampin, Rifabutin)
Interactions with food items
No relevant information.
Dosage of Cefazolin
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include difficulty in breathing and seizures. If there has been an overdose, call a doctor immediately.
Missed a Dose
If you miss a dose, follow the regular dosage schedule but do not double the dose.
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Nikita Toshi
BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery)
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the difference between Cefazolin and other antibiotics?
A: This drug is bactericidal, which means that it can kill the bacteria, rather than prevent its growth in the infected area. Its usage in combination with other antibiotics can be lethal.
Q: Can it be administered to pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding?
A: Yes, the drug is administered to the pregnant woman to help alleviate any cause of infection. It is secreted naturally in breast milk, so it should be given with caution to the nursing mother.
Q: Can Cefazolin be used in the treatment of meningitis?
A: This drug can affect the central nervous system; it cannot be utilized for the treatment of meningitis.
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