What is Cefazolin sodium?
Cefazolin sodium is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including skin and soft tissue infections, surgical prophylaxis, and pneumonia. It functions by inhibiting cell wall synthesis in bacteria, ultimately leading to their death. The medication typically comes as an intravenous injection or infusion, allowing it to be administered directly into the bloodstream for rapid distribution throughout the body. Cefazolin sodium is effective against a broad spectrum of susceptible gram-positive and some gram-negative microorganisms.
What is Cefazolin sodium used for?
Cefazolin sodium, also known as Cefazolin or Aprix, is an antibiotic medication that belongs to the cephalosporin class of beta-lactam antibiotics. It is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic and functions by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, ultimately leading to the death of the bacteria. As with other cephalosporins, cefazolin works best against gram-positive bacteria but also has some activity against certain gram-negative bacteria.
Cefazolin sodium is commonly used to treat various infections caused by susceptible organisms. These include skin and soft tissue infections (such as cellulitis), bone and joint infections (like osteomyelitis), respiratory tract infections, intra-abdominal infections (often in the context of surgery or post-surgical care), and infections associated with dental procedures or operations where there’s a risk of postoperative bacterial infection. It is administered intravenously (into a vein) for its quick action. The drug is considered effective against both Streptococcus pyogenes, which causes strep throat among other illnesses, and other bacteria responsible for severe infections that could spread to the bloodstream.
Cefazolin sodium side effects
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Anaphylaxis (rare)
- Dermatologic reactions (e.g., erythema, urticaria)
- Tachycardia
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine levels
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Phlebitis or irritation at injection sites
- Infusion site reactions
- Decreased hemoglobin or hematocrit
- Thrombocytopenia
- Leukopenia
- Eosinophilia
- Arthus reaction (rare)
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome (rare)
Disclaimer
The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information provided here is based on general research and may not apply to individual circumstances. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any content on this website. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication or health routine.