Products
Cefazolin is commercially available as an injection and infusion preparation (Kefzol, generics). It has been approved in many countries since 1974.
Structure and properties
Cefazolin (C14H14N8O4S3, Mr = 454.5 g/mol) is present in drugs as cefazolin sodium, a white powder that is readily soluble in water.
Effects
Cefazolin (ATC J01DA04) is bactericidal. Its effects are due to inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis. It has a short half-life (1.4 hours when administered intravenously).
Indications
For treatment of bacterial infectious diseases with susceptible pathogens.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered intramuscularly or intravenously.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to active substance, excipients and cephalosporins.
- Cross-allergy is possible with penicillin allergy.
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions have been described with probenecid, bacteriostatic drugs, aminoglycosides, loop diuretics, and nephrotoxic drugs.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include digestive disturbances such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite, flatulence, and abdominal pain, allergic skin reactions, and pain at the injection site. Very rarely, anaphylaxis is possible after injection.