Dose and Dosage:
- The dosage of ceftriaxone varies depending on the condition being treated, the severity of the infection, and the patient’s age and weight.
- It is typically administered intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM).
- The usual adult dosage for most infections ranges from 1 to 2 grams per day, given once daily or divided into two doses.
- Pediatric dosages are determined based on the child’s weight and the severity of the infection.
Frequency:
- Ceftriaxone is usually administered once daily. However, in certain cases or severe infections, it may be given twice daily.
Route of Administration (ROA):
- Ceftriaxone is administered via intravenous (IV) infusion or intramuscular (IM) injection.
Mechanism of Action (MOA):
- Ceftriaxone is a broad-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), resulting in bacterial cell death.
Pharmacokinetics (PK):
- Ceftriaxone has high bioavailability when administered intravenously or intramuscularly.
- It has a long half-life, allowing for once-daily dosing in most cases.
- It is primarily eliminated by the kidneys through both glomerular filtration and tubular secretion.
Pharmacodynamics (PD):
- Ceftriaxone exhibits concentration-dependent bactericidal activity against susceptible bacteria.
Pathophysiology:
- Ceftriaxone treats bacterial infections by inhibiting the growth and reproduction of bacteria, thereby helping the body’s immune system to eradicate the infection.
Indications:
- Ceftriaxone is indicated for the treatment of various bacterial infections, including but not limited to:
- Lower respiratory tract infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Bone and joint infections
- Intra-abdominal infections
- Meningitis
- Gonorrhea
- Lyme disease
- Septicemia
Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or penicillins
- History of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to cephalosporins or penicillins
Drug Interactions:
- Ceftriaxone may interact with other medications, including probenecid (increases ceftriaxone levels), anticoagulants (increases risk of bleeding), and loop diuretics (increases risk of nephrotoxicity).
Monitoring and Laboratory Tests:
- Monitoring of renal function is recommended during treatment with ceftriaxone, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
- Regular monitoring of complete blood count (CBC) and liver function tests (LFTs) may be necessary during prolonged therapy.
- Culture and sensitivity tests should be performed to identify the causative organism and determine its susceptibility to ceftriaxone before starting treatment.
Why is this medication prescribed?
Ceftriaxone is prescribed to treat various bacterial infections, including but not limited to:
- Lower respiratory tract infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Bone and joint infections
- Intra-abdominal infections
- Meningitis
- Gonorrhea
- Lyme disease
- Septicemia
How should this medicine be used?
Ceftriaxone is usually administered once daily, either intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM). The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the type and severity of the infection. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Other uses for this medicine
Ceftriaxone may also be used for other purposes not listed here. Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding its use.
What special precautions should I follow?
- Inform your doctor about any allergies or previous adverse reactions to antibiotics.
- Inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially kidney or liver disease.
- Inform your doctor about any other medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with ceftriaxone use. However, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet and adequate fluid intake to support recovery from the infection.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
If you miss a dose of ceftriaxone, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to determine the appropriate course of action. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
What side effects can this medication cause?
Common side effects of ceftriaxone may include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rash
- Injection site reactions
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Yeast infection (in women)
Serious side effects may include allergic reactions, severe diarrhea, and inflammation of the colon. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms.
What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?
- Ceftriaxone should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
- Follow the specific instructions provided by your pharmacist regarding the proper storage of the medication.
- Do not use ceftriaxone if it has changed color or has particles in it.
- Dispose of any unused medication properly, following local regulations or guidelines.
In case of emergency/overdose
If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, seek emergency medical attention immediately.