Products
Ceftriaxone is commercially available as a powder and solvent for the preparation of a solution for injection (Rocephin, generics). It has been approved in many countries since 1982 and is also used in fixed combination with lidocaine.
Structure and properties
Ceftriaxone (C18H18N8O7S3, Mr = 554.6 g/mol) is present in drugs as ceftriaxone disodium (3.5 H2O), a nearly white to yellowish, crystalline, and weakly hygroscopic powder that is very soluble in water. Ceftriaxone is prepared semisynthetically.
Effects
Ceftriaxone (ATC J01DD04) has bactericidal properties. The effects are due to inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBP). The half-life is approximately 8 hours.
Indications
For the treatment of bacterial infectious diseases with susceptible pathogens.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered intravenously or intramuscularly.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity, including to other cephalosporins and possibly to other beta-lactam antibiotics.
- Premature infants.
- Neonates receiving parenteral treatment with calcium.
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include blood count changes, diarrhea, thin stools, elevation of liver enzymes, skin rashes, and edema. In children, the calcium salt of ceftriaxone may precipitate in the gallbladder, and reversible gallstones may develop.