Tazobactam is a medication that blocks beta-lactamases, enzymes some bacteria produce to make themselves resistant to antibiotics. A doctor can prescribe tazobactam in combination therapy with other antibiotics like piperacillin to treat a bacterial infection. Generic combination drugs are available, along with brand name medications. Manufacturers produce them in the form of injectable solutions given by a nurse or doctor in a clinical setting, although a patient may be instructed in home use of the medication in some situations.
On its own, this medication is not effective in the treatment of bacterial infections. When it is combined with another antibiotic, it can protect the second drug from damage caused by beta-lactamases, allowing it to be more effective. Piperacillin is the most common choice for combination with tazobactam. The tazobactam will extend the life and efficacy of the other antibiotic, killing the bacteria and clearing the infection.
A doctor will prescribe this medication in an intravenous drip delivered over a period of time, usually around half an hour, to allow the medication to circulate in the patient's body. Usually, multiple doses are needed each day to keep levels of medication in the blood high enough to be effective. The length of the treatment varies, depending on the nature of the infection and how well the patient responds, and the doctor will usually want to run a follow-up test to confirm that the bacteria are gone before taking the patient off the medication.
Patients on tazobactam combination therapy commonly experience intestinal upset and headaches. Sometimes, soreness develops around the injection site. If side effects are persistent or become more severe, the patient should discuss them with a doctor. Bloody diarrhea or vomit, for example, are both causes for concern in a patient on this medication. It is also important to avoid mixing antibiotics, as sometimes antibiotic medications can interfere with each other and reduce effectiveness.
People with a history of allergies to antibiotics should discuss these when talking about options for antibiotic therapy. Antibiotics in the same family can cause similar reactions, making it important to identify patients at risk of adverse reactions. It is also a good idea to discuss any other drugs being taken, including over-the-counter medications, in case one of them might conflict with the therapy. After discussing the patient's history, the doctor may adjust the drug regimen or pursue a different antibiotic medication to avoid complications.
