Other Brands/Names

Ceftizoxime Sodium, Tizos, Cefim, E-Zox, Ceftien, Cefizox.

How it Works

Ceftizoxime is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It works by stopping bacterial growth through the inhibition of cell wall formation, leading to the death of the bacterial cells.

Indications

Ceftizoxime is used to treat bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, ear infections, and gonorrhea.

Contraindications

This medication should not be used by individuals with a history of allergy to ceftizoxime or other cephalosporin antibiotics.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Pain

• Redness or swelling at the injection site

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

Prolonged or repeated use of ceftizoxime may cause yeast infections in the mouth or genital areas. If you notice white patches in your mouth, unusual vaginal discharge, or other symptoms of a yeast infection, contact your doctor.

Ceftizoxime may also cause severe intestinal upset due to a bacteria called Clostridium difficile. This can happen during treatment or even weeks to months after the treatment has ended. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent diarrhea

• Abdominal pain or cramps

• Blood or mucus in your stool

Types

Ceftizoxime is available as a 1-gram vial of powder for injection.

Dosage

Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections

• Adults: 0.5 grams every 12 hours, administered by intramuscular injection or slow intravenous injection over 3-5 minutes.

Other Infections

• Adults:
  • 1-2 grams every 8-12 hours, administered by intramuscular injection or slow intravenous injection over 3-5 minutes. In severe infections, the dose may be increased to 2-4 grams every 8 hours.
  • Maximum dose: 2 grams every 4 hours.
• Children ≥6 months: 50 mg/kg every 6-8 hours.

Safety

Patients with a history of penicillin allergy or gastrointestinal disease should be closely monitored when using this medication.

Ceftizoxime should only be used during pregnancy if necessary. It is unclear if this medication is excreted in breast milk, so consult your doctor before using it during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Drug Interactions

Ceftizoxime serum levels may increase if used in conjunction with probenecid (a medication used to lower uric acid levels).

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