Ceftazidime

What is ceftazidime?

Ceftazidime is a third-generation, injectable, cephalosporin antibiotic that kills bacteria. It is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections and is effective against both gram-negative and gram-positive types of bacteria. It is usually reserved for more serious infections. Ceftazidime is used off-label in dogs, cats, birds and reptiles.

Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give my pet ceftazidime?

• Ceftazidime comes as an injectable solution that is given at the veterinary hospital.
• Injections can be given into the vein (IV), into the muscle (IM) or under the skin (SQ).
• Your veterinarian will determine the dose and frequency of injections.
• Cephalosporins may cause allergic reactions in individuals who are allergic to penicillins. Avoid direct contact with the product, including skin and mucous membranes.

This medication should take effect within 1-2 hours and improvement in clinical signs should follow, although they may not be noted outwardly for a few days.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, arrange to get it as soon as you can, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once. 

Are there any potential side effects?

Ceftazidime may cause the following side effects:

• Vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite
• Pain and inflammation may occur at the site of injection when given into the muscle (IM) or under the skin (SQ)

The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Signs of an allergic or anaphylactic reaction, including swelling, hives, changes in breathing, and signs of agitation
• Signs of reduced red cells, white cells, and platelets, including pale gums, lethargy, vomiting, and loss of appetite

Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of the treatment and notify your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This medication is short-acting and should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication? 

DO NOT USE ceftazidime in pets that:

• Are allergic to any of the ingredients or have a known allergy to cephalosporins

USE WITH CAUTION in pets that:

• Have kidney failure
• Have an allergy to similar antibiotics, such as penicillin

Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of the treatment and notify your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Certain medications SHOULD NOT BE USED with ceftazidime, including:

• Warfarin (ceftazidime may increase warfarin’s anticoagulant effects)

Certain medications should be USED WITH CAUTION when given with ceftazidime, including:

• Aminoglycosides (may increase the risk of kidney toxicity)

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Baseline blood work may be recommended to assess your pet's general health before starting this medication. Dose adjustments may be made based upon test results, culture results, and an assessment of how your dog or cat is responding clinically.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store ceftazidime?

Your veterinarian will be responsible for the proper storage of this medication.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.