IV cefazolin is a cephalosporin antibiotic that is administered intravenously, or through a catheter or needle, and is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, biliary tract infections, and endocarditis, which is an infection in the heart. Patients who have infections of the skin, bones, or joints may also benefit from this antibiotic. A doctor may also prescribe it for those with respiratory tract infections and septicemia, which refers to a severe, life-threatening blood infection.
Patients will typically receive IV cefazolin in the hospital, and each dose should be diluted with additional liquid. The healthcare professional administering the cefazolin dose will sterilize the area of skin, insert the needle or catheter, and attach the bag containing the medication. Each infusion takes approximately 30 minutes to complete, and most patients will be prescribed two to four doses each day until the infection is eradicated. The specific strength of each dose will vary, depending on the severity and type of the infection. Blood tests and other laboratory tests may be required throughout the treatment to ensure the efficacy of the drug, as well as the patient's general safety.
Antibiotic treatment with IV cefazolin may cause some side effects, which should be reported to the prescribing physician if they become severe. Patients may experience an upset stomach or stomach pain. Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting may also occur. Loss of appetite and a lump at the injection site have been reported. Some signs of a yeast infection may also develop, such as vaginal itching or white patches inside the mouth.
Patients who experience more serious side effects from IV cefazolin should alert the doctor promptly. These may include severe numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, and unusual weakness, as well as problems breathing, unusual bruising or bleeding, and flu-like symptoms, such as a fever, chills, and sore throat. Rarely, seizures and a blistering, peeling skin rash have also been reported. Some patients may also suffer from bloody or watery diarrhea, which may be indicative of a secondary infection.
Before using IV cefazolin to treat a bacterial infection, patients should disclose their other medical conditions, medications, and supplements. This drug is not expected to cause harm to an unborn fetus; however, it can harm a nursing infant. IV cefazolin may be contraindicated for use by those with kidney or liver disease, or a stomach or intestinal disorder. It may interact with other medications and supplements, including other antibiotics, vitamins, and probenecid.
