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Third generation Cephalosporins

Coverage:
Gram-positive: "Some members of this group (in particular, those available in an oral formulation, and those with antipseudomonal activity) have decreased activity against gram-positive organisms."Gram-negative: "Third-generation cephalosporins have a broad spectrum of activity and further increased activity against gram-negative organisms. They may be particularly useful in treating hospital-acquired infections, although increasing levels of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases are reducing the clinical utility of this class of antibiotics. They are also able to penetrate the CNS, making them useful against meningitis caused by pneumococci, meningococci, H. influenzae, and susceptible E. coli, Klebsiella, and penicillin-resistant N. gonorrhoeae. Since August 2012, the third-generation cephalosporin, ceftriaxone, is the only recommended treatment for gonorrhea in the United States (in addition to azithromycin or doxycycline for concurrent Chlamydia treatment). Cefixime is no longer recommended as a first-line treatment due to evidence of decreasing susceptibility. Activity against staphylococci and streptococci is less with the third-generation compounds than with the first- and second- generation compounds."
[Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_generation_cephalosporin#Classification]
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Antimicrobials - Infectious Disease

Aminoglycosides Ansamycins/Rifamycins Antibiotics (Other)
Anti- Fungals Anti-Herpetic Agents Anti-Influenza Agents
Anti-Malarials Carbapenems Cephalosporins
Fluoroquinolones Glycopeptides HIV (anti) Agents
Lincosamides Lipopeptides Macrolides
Monobactams Oxazolidones Penicillins
Sulfonamide antibiotics Tetracyclines Tuberculosis (anti) agents

Navigation (cephalosporins)

  1. First generation cephalosporins
  2. Second generation cephalosporins
  3. Third generation cephalosporins led
  4. Fourth generation cephalosporins
  5. Fifth generation cephalosporins

Cefdinir (Omnicef ®)

INDICATIONS AND USAGE:
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of cefdinir capsules and other antibacterial drugs, cefdinir capsules should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.

Cefdinir capsules are indicated for the treatment of patients with mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the conditions listed below.

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Adults and Adolescents:
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Community-Acquired Pneumonia:
Caused by Haemophilus influenzae (including beta-lactamase producing strains), Haemophilus parainfluenzae (including beta-lactamase producing strains), Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-susceptible strains only), and Moraxella catarrhalis (including beta-lactamase producing strains) .

Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis:
Caused by Haemophilus influenzae (including beta-lactamase producing strains), Haemophilus parainfluenzae (including beta-lactamase producing strains), Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-susceptible strains only), and Moraxella catarrhalis (including beta-lactamase producing strains).

Acute Maxillary Sinusitis:
Caused by Haemophilus influenzae (including beta-lactamase producing strains), Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-susceptible strains only), and Moraxella catarrhalis (including beta-lactamase producing strains).

NOTE: For information on use in pediatric patients, see Pediatric Use and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION.

Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis:
Caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.

NOTE: Cefdinir is effective in the eradication of S. pyogenes from the oropharynx. Cefdinir has not, however, been studied for the prevention of rheumatic fever following S. pyogenes pharyngitis/tonsillitis. Only intramuscular penicillin has been demonstrated to be effective for the prevention of rheumatic fever.

Uncomplicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections:
Caused by Staphylococcus aureus (including beta-lactamase producing strains) and Streptococcus pyogenes.

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Pediatric Patients:
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Acute Bacterial Otitis Media:
Caused by Haemophilus influenzae (including beta-lactamase producing strains), Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-susceptible strains only), and Moraxella catarrhalis (including beta-lactamase producing strains).

Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis:
Caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.

NOTE: Cefdinir is effective in the eradication of S. pyogenes from the oropharynx. Cefdinir has not, however, been studied for the prevention of rheumatic fever following S. pyogenes pharyngitis/tonsillitis. Only intramuscular penicillin has been demonstrated to be effective for the prevention of rheumatic fever.

Uncomplicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections:
Caused by Staphylococcus aureus (including beta-lactamase producing strains) and Streptococcus pyogenes.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:
The recommended dosage and duration of treatment for infections in adults and adolescents are described in the following chart; the total daily dose for all infections is 600 mg. Once-daily dosing for 10 days is as effective as BID dosing. Once-daily dosing has not been studied in pneumonia or skin infections; therefore, cefdinir capsules should be administered twice daily in these infections. Cefdinir capsules may be taken without regard to meals.

Adults and Adolescents (Age 13 years and Older)

Type of Infection Dosage Duration
Community-Acquired Pneumonia 300 mg q12h 10 days
Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis 300 mg q12h 5 to 10 days
or
Acute Maxillary Sinusitis 600 mg q24h 10 days
300 mg q12h 10 days
or
Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis 600 mg q24h 10 days
300 mg q12h 5 to 10 days
or
Uncomplicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections 600 mg q24h 10 days
300 mg q12h 10 days

Renal Dosing:
For adult patients with creatinine clearance <30 mL/min, the dose of cefdinir should be 300 mg given once daily.

Creatinine clearance is difficult to measure in outpatients. However, the following formula may be used to estimate creatinine clearance (CLcr) in adult patients. For estimates to be valid, serum creatinine levels should reflect steady-state levels of renal function.

Males: CLcr = (weight)x (140 - age) / [ (72) (serum creatinine) ]
Females: CLcr = 0.85 x above value

where creatinine clearance is in mL/min, age is in years, weight is in kilograms, and serum creatinine is in mg/dL.

Patients on Hemodialysis:
Hemodialysis removes cefdinir from the body. In patients maintained on chronic hemodialysis, the recommended initial dosage regimen is a 300 mg or 7 mg/kg dose every other day. At the conclusion of each hemodialysis session, 300 mg (or 7 mg/kg) should be given. Subsequent doses (300 mg or 7 mg/kg) are then administered every other day.

Supplied:
Cefdinir capsules USP, 300 mg, size ‘0’ capsules having blue cap imprinted twice with "LUPIN" (in black ink) and purple body imprinted twice with "CEFDINIR" (in white ink) containing off white to creamish granular slug, are available as follows:

60 Capsules/Bottle NDC 68180-711-60

SOURCE:
Package insert data:

Cefixime (Suprax®)

INDICATIONS AND USAGE:
Suprax (cefixime) is a cephalosporin antibacterial drug indicated for:
Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections
Otitis Media
Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis
Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis
Uncomplicated Gonorrhea (cervical/urethral)

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:
Adults: The recommended dose of cefixime is 400 mg daily. This may be given as a 400 mg tablet or capsule daily or the 400 mg tablet may be split and given as one half tablet every 12 hours. For the treatment of uncomplicated cervical/urethral gonococcal infections, a single oral dose of 400 mg is recommended. The capsule and tablet may be administered without regard to food.

In the treatment of infections due to Streptococcus pyogenes, a therapeutic dosage of cefixime should be administered for at least 10 days.

Pediatric Patients (6 months or older)
The recommended dose is 8 mg/kg/day of the suspension. This may be administered as a single daily dose or may be given in two divided doses, as 4 mg/kg every 12 hours.

Renal Dosing:
Suprax may be administered in the presence of impaired renal function. Normal dose and schedule may be employed in patients with creatinine clearances of 60 mL/min or greater. Refer to Table 2 for dose adjustments for adults with renal impairment. Neither hemodialysis nor peritoneal dialysis removes significant amounts of drug from the body.

Table 2. Doses for Adults with Renal Impairment
Renal Dysfunction
Suprax (cefixime) for Oral Suspension
Tablet
Chewable
Tablet
Creatinine Clearance (mL/min) 100 mg/5mL 200 mg/5mL 500 mg/5mL 400 mg
200 mg
Dose/Day (mL) Dose/Day (mL) Dose/Day (mL) Dose/Day Dose/Day
60 or greater Normal dose Normal dose Normal dose Normal dose Normal dose
21 to 59*
OR renal hemodialysis*
13 6.5 2.6 Not Appropriate Not Appropriate
20 or less
OR continuous peritoneal
dialysis
8.6 4.4 1.8 0.5 tablet 1 tablet

*The preferred concentrations of oral suspension to use are 200 mg/5 mL or 500 mg/5 mL for patients with this renal dysfunction

DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
Film-coated, scored Tablets: 400 mg
Capsules: 400 mg
Chewable Tablets: 100 mg, 150 mg and 200 mg
Oral Suspension: 100 mg/5 mL, 200 mg/5 mL and 500 mg/5 mL

SOURCE:
Package insert data:

Cefoperazone (Cefobid ®)

INDICATIONS AND USAGE:
CEFOBID is indicated for the treatment of the following infections when caused by susceptible organisms:

Respiratory Tract Infections caused by S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, S. aureus (penicillinase and non-penicillinase producing strains), S. pyogenes1 (Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci), P. aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, E. coli, Proteus mirabilis, and Enterobacter species.

Peritonitis and Other Intra-abdominal Infections caused by E. coli, P. aeruginosa,1 and anaerobic gram-negative bacilli (including Bacteroides fragilis).

Bacterial Septicemia caused by S. pneumoniae, S. agalactiae,1 S. aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa,1 E. coli, Klebsiella spp.,1Klebsiella pneumoniae,1 Proteus species1 (indole-positive and indole-negative), Clostridium spp.1 and anaerobic gram-positive cocci.1

Infections of the Skin and Skin Structures caused by S. aureus (penicillinase and non-penicillinase producing strains), S. pyogenes,1 and P. aeruginosa.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, Endometritis, and Other Infections of the Female Genital Tract caused by N. gonorrhoeae, S. epidermidis,1 S. agalactiae, E. coli, Clostridium spp.,1 Bacteroides species (including Bacteroides fragilis), and anaerobic gram-positive cocci.

Urinary Tract Infections caused by Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Enterococcal Infections: Although cefoperazone has been shown to be clinically effective in the treatment of infections caused by enterococci in cases of peritonitis and other intra-abdominal infections, infections of the skin and skin structures, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometritis and other infections of the female genital tract, and urinary tract infections,1 the majority of clinical isolates of enterococci tested are not susceptible to cefoperazone but fall just at or in the intermediate zone of susceptibility, and are moderately resistant to cefoperazone. However, in vitro susceptibility testing may not correlate directly with in vivo results. Despite this, cefoperazone therapy has resulted in clinical cures of enterococcal infections, chiefly in polymicrobial infections. Cefoperazone should be used in enterococcal infections with care and at doses that achieve satisfactory serum levels of cefoperazone.

1. Efficacy of this organism in this organ system was studied in fewer than 10 infections.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:
The usual adult daily dose of CEFOBID (sterile cefoperazone) is 2 to 4 grams per day administered in equally divided doses every 12 hours.

In severe infections or infections caused by less sensitive organisms, the total daily dose and/or frequency may be increased. Patients have been successfully treated with a total daily dosage of 6-12 grams divided into 2, 3 or 4 administrations ranging from 1.5 to 4 grams per dose.

In a pharmacokinetic study, a total daily dose of 16 grams was administered to severely immunocompromised patients by constant infusion without complications. Steady state serum concentrations were approximately 150 mcg/mL in these patients.

When treating infections caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, therapy should be continued for at least 10 days.

Solutions of CEFOBID and aminoglycoside should not be directly mixed, since there is a physical incompatibility between them. If combination therapy with CEFOBID and an aminoglycoside is contemplated (see INDICATIONS) this can be accomplished by sequential intermittent intravenous infusion provided that separate secondary intravenous tubing is used, and that the primary intravenous tubing is adequately irrigated with an approved diluent between doses. It is also suggested that CEFOBID be administered prior to the aminoglycoside. In vitro testing of the effectiveness of drug combination(s) is recommended.

SOURCE:
Package insert data:

Cefotaxime (Claforan ®)

INDICATIONS AND USAGE:
---------------------------------
Treatment
---------------------------------

Cefotaxime for Injection, USP is indicated for the treatment of patients with serious infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the diseases listed below.

(1) Lower respiratory tract infections, including pneumonia, caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae (formerly Diplococcus pneumoniae), Streptococcus pyogenes* (Group A streptococci) and other streptococci (excluding enterococci, e.g., Enterococcus faecalis), Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase and non-penicillinase producing), Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Haemophilus influenzae (including ampicillin resistant strains), Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Proteus mirabilis, Serratia marcescens*, Enterobacter species, indole positive Proteus and Pseudomonas species (including P. aeruginosa).

(2) Genitourinary infections. Urinary tract infections caused by Enterococcus species, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus*, (penicillinase and non-penicillinase producing), Citrobacter species, Enterobacter species, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris*, Providencia stuartii, Morganella morganii*, Providencia rettgeri*, Serratia marcescens and Pseudomonas species (including P. aeruginosa). Also, uncomplicated gonorrhea (cervical/urethral and rectal) caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, including penicillinase producing strains.

(3) Gynecologic infections, including pelvic inflammatory disease, endometritis and pelvic cellulitis caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus species, Enterococcus species, Enterobacter species*, Klebsiella species*, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Bacteroides species (including Bacteroides fragilis*), Clostridium species, and anaerobic cocci (including Peptostreptococcus species and Peptococcus species) and Fusobacterium species (including F. nucleatum*).
Cefotaxime for Injection, USP, like other cephalosporins, has no activity against Chlamydia trachomatis. Therefore, when cephalosporins are used in the treatment of patients with pelvic inflammatory disease and C. trachomatis is one of the suspected pathogens, appropriate anti-chlamydial coverage should be added.

(4) Bacteremia/Septicemia caused by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, and Serratia marcescens, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species (including S. pneumoniae).

(5) Skin and skin structure infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase and non-penicillinase producing), Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A streptococci) and other streptococci, Enterococcus species, Acinetobacter species*, Escherichia coli, Citrobacter species (including C. freundii*), Enterobacter species, Klebsiella species, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris*, Morganella morganii, Providencia rettgeri*, Pseudomonas species, Serratia marcescens, Bacteroides species, and anaerobic cocci (including Peptostreptococcus* species and Peptococcus species).

(6) Intra-abdominal infections including peritonitis caused by Streptococcus species*, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Bacteroides species, and anaerobic cocci (including Peptostreptococcus* species and Peptococcus* species) Proteus mirabilis*, and Clostridium species*.

(7) Bone and/or joint infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase and non-penicillinase producing strains), Streptococcus species (including S. pyogenes*), Pseudomonas species (including P. aeruginosa*), and Proteus mirabilis*.

(8) Central nervous system infections, e.g., meningitis and ventriculitis, caused by Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae* and Escherichia coli*.

(*) Efficacy for this organism, in this organ system, has been studied in fewer than 10 infections.

Although many strains of enterococci (e.g., S. faecalis) and Pseudomonas species are resistant to cefotaxime sodium in vitro, Cefotaxime for Injection, USP has been used successfully in treating patients with infections caused by susceptible organisms.

Specimens for bacteriologic culture should be obtained prior to therapy in order to isolate and identify causative organisms and to determine their susceptibilities to cefotaxime. Therapy may be instituted before results of susceptibility studies are known; however, once these results become available, the antibiotic treatment should be adjusted accordingly.

In certain cases of confirmed or suspected gram-positive or gram-negative sepsis or in patients with other serious infections in which the causative organism has not been identified, Cefotaxime for Injection, USP may be used concomitantly with an aminoglycoside. The dosage recommended in the labeling of both antibiotics may be given and depends on the severity of the infection and the patient's condition. Renal function should be carefully monitored, especially if higher dosages of the aminoglycosides are to be administered or if therapy is prolonged, because of the potential nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity of aminoglycoside antibiotics. It is possible that nephrotoxicity may be potentiated if Cefotaxime for Injection, USP is used concomitantly with an aminoglycoside.

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Prevention
---------------------------------
The administration of Cefotaxime for Injection, USP preoperatively reduces the incidence of certain infections in patients undergoing surgical procedures (e.g., abdominal or vaginal hysterectomy, gastrointestinal and genitourinary tract surgery) that may be classified as contaminated or potentially contaminated.

In patients undergoing cesarean section, intraoperative (after clamping the umbilical cord) and postoperative use of Cefotaxime for Injection, USP may also reduce the incidence of certain postoperative infections. See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section.

Effective use for elective surgery depends on the time of administration. To achieve effective tissue levels, Cefotaxime for Injection, USP should be given 1/2 or 1 1/2 hours before surgery. See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section.

For patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery, preoperative bowel preparation by mechanical cleansing as well as with a non-absorbable antibiotic (e.g., neomycin) is recommended.

If there are signs of infection, specimens for culture should be obtained for identification of the causative organism so that appropriate therapy may be instituted.

To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Cefotaxime for Injection, USP and other antibacterial drugs, Cefotaxime for Injection, USP should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:

-----------------------------
Adults:
-----------------------------
Dosage and route of administration should be determined by susceptibility of the causative organisms, severity of the infection, and the condition of the patient (see table for dosage guideline). Cefotaxime may be administered IM or IV after reconstitution. The maximum daily dosage should not exceed 12 grams.

GUIDELINES FOR DOSAGE OF CEFOTAXIME FOR INJECTION

Type of Infection Daily Dose (grams) Frequency and Route
Gonococcal urethritis/cervicitis in males and females 0.5 0.5 gram IM (single dose)
Rectal gonorrhea in females 0.5 0.5 gram IM (single dose)
Rectal gonorrhea in males 1 1 gram IM (single dose)
Uncomplicated infections 2 1 gram every 12 hours IM or IV
Moderate to severe infections 3-6 1-2 grams every 8 hours IM or IV
Infections commonly needing antibiotics in higher dosage (e.g., septicemia) 6-8 2 grams every 6-8 hours IV
Life-threatening infections up to 12 2 grams every 4 hours IV

If C. trachomatis is a suspected pathogen, appropriate anti-chlamydial coverage should be added, because cefotaxime sodium has no activity against this organism.

To prevent postoperative infection in contaminated or potentially contaminated surgery, the recommended dose is a single 1 gram IM or IV administered 30 to 90 minutes prior to start of surgery.

Cesarean Section Patients

The first dose of 1 gram is administered intravenously as soon as the umbilical cord is clamped. The second and third doses should be given as 1 gram intravenously or intramuscularly at 6 and 12 hours after the first dose.

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Neonates, Infants, and Children
-----------------------------

The following dosage schedule is recommended:

Neonates (birth to 1 month):
0-1 week of age 50 mg/kg per dose every 12 hours IV
1-4 weeks of age 50 mg/kg per dose every 8 hours IV

It is not necessary to differentiate between premature and normal-gestational age infants.

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Infants and Children (1 month to 12 years):
-----------------------------
For body weights less than 50 kg, the recommended daily dose is 50 to 180 mg/kg IM or IV body weight divided into four to six equal doses. The higher dosages should be used for more severe or serious infections, including meningitis. For body weights 50 kg or more, the usual adult dosage should be used; the maximum daily dosage should not exceed 12 grams.
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NOTE: As with antibiotic therapy in general, administration of cefotaxime should be continued for a minimum of 48 to 72 hours after the patient defervesces or after evidence of bacterial eradication has been obtained; a minimum of 10 days of treatment is recommended for infections caused by Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci in order to guard against the risk of rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis; frequent bacteriologic and clinical appraisal is necessary during therapy of chronic urinary tract infection and may be required for several months after therapy has been completed; persistent infections may require treatment of several weeks and doses smaller than those indicated above should not be used.

Renal Dosing:
Although there is no clinical evidence supporting the necessity of changing the dosage of cefotaxime sodium in patients with even profound renal dysfunction, it is suggested that, until further data are obtained, the dose of cefotaxime sodium be halved in patients with estimated creatinine clearances of less than 20 mL/min/1.73 m2.

SOURCE:
Package insert data:

Cefpodoxime (Vantin ® )

INDICATIONS AND USAGE:
Cefpodoxime proxetil is indicated for the treatment of patients with mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the conditions listed below.

Recommended dosages, durations of therapy, and applicable patient populations vary among these infections. Please see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION for specific recommendations. Acute otitis media caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae (excluding penicillin-resistant strains), Streptococcus pyogenes, Haemophilus influenzae (including beta-lactamase-producing strains), or Moraxella (Branhamella) catarrhalis (including beta-lactamase-producing strains).

Pharyngitis and/or tonsillitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.
NOTE: Only penicillin by the intramuscular route of administration has been shown to be effective in the prophylaxis of rheumatic fever. Cefpodoxime proxetil is generally effective in the eradication of streptococci from the oropharynx. However, data establishing the efficacy of cefpodoxime proxetil for the prophylaxis of subsequent rheumatic fever are not available.

Community-acquired pneumonia caused by S. pneumoniae or H. Influenzae (including beta-lactamase-producing strains).

Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis caused by S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae (non-beta-lactamase-producing strains only), or M. catarrhalis. Data are insufficient at this time to establish efficacy in patients with acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis caused by beta-lactamase-producing strains of H. influenzae.

Acute, uncomplicated urethral and cervical gonorrhea caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae (including penicillinase-producing strains).

Acute, uncomplicated ano-rectal infections in women due to Neisseria gonorrhoeae (including penicillinase-producing strains).

NOTE: The efficacy of cefpodoxime in treating male patients with rectal infections caused by N. gonorrhoeae has not been established. Data do not support the use of cefpodoxime proxetil in the treatment of pharyngeal infections due to N. gonorrhoeae in men or women.

Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus (including penicillinase-producing strains) or Streptococcus pyogenes. Abscesses should be surgically drained as clinically indicated.

NOTE: In clinical trials, successful treatment of uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections was dose-related. The effective therapeutic dose for skin infections was higher than those used in other recommended indications. (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION.)

Acute maxillary sinusitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae (including beta-lactamase-producing strains), Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.

Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (cystitis) caused by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, or Staphylococcus saprophyticus.

NOTE: In considering the use of cefpodoxime proxetil in the treatment of cystitis, cefpodoxime proxetil's lower bacterial eradication rates should be weighed against the increased eradication rates and different safety profiles of some other classes of approved agents.

Appropriate specimens for bacteriological examination should be obtained in order to isolate and identify causative organisms and to determine their susceptibility to cefpodoxime. Therapy may be instituted while awaiting the results of these studies. Once these results become available, antimicrobial therapy should be adjusted accordingly.

To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of VANTIN and other antibacterial drugs, VANTIN should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:
FILM-COATED TABLETS

VANTIN Tablets should be administered orally with food to enhance absorption.

The recommended dosages, durations of treatment, and applicable patient population are as described in the following chart:

Adults and Adolescents (age 12 years and older):

Type of Infection Total Daily
Dose
Dose Frequency Duration
Pharyngitis and/or tonsillitis 200 mg 100 mg Q 12 hours 5 to 10 days
Acute community-acquired
pneumonia
400 mg 200 mg Q 12 hours 14 days
Acute bacterial exacerbations
of chronic bronchitis
400 mg 200 mg Q 12 hours 10 days
Uncomplicated gonorrhea
(men and women) and rectal
gonococcal infections (women)
200 mg single dose
Skin and skin structure 800 mg 400 mg Q 12 hours 7 to 14 days
Acute maxillary sinusitis 400 mg 200 mg Q 12 hours 10 days
Uncomplicated urinary tract
infection
200 mg 100 mg Q 12 hours 7 days

Infants and Pediatric Patients (age 2 months through 12 years):

Type of Infection Total Daily
Dose
Dose Frequency Duration
Acute otitis media 10 mg/kg/day
(Max 400 mg/day)
5 mg/kg Q 12 h
(Max 200 mg/dose)
5 days
Pharyngitis and/or tonsillitis 10 mg/kg/day
(Max 200 mg/day)
5 mg/kg/dose Q 12 h
(Max 100 mg/dose)
5 to 10 days
Acute maxillary sinusitis 10 mg/kg/day
(Max 400 mg/day)
5 mg/kg Q 12 hours
(Max 200 mg/dose)
10 days

Renal Dosing:
For patients with severe renal impairment (<30 mL/min creatinine clearance), the dosing intervals should be increased to Q 24 hours. In patients maintained on hemodialysis, the dose frequency should be 3 times/week after hemodialysis.

When only the serum creatinine level is available, the following formula (based on sex, weight, and age of the patient) may be used to estimate creatinine clearance (mL/min). For this estimate to be valid, the serum creatinine level should represent a steady state of renal function.

Males: CLcr = (weight)x (140 - age) / [ (72) (serum creatinine) ]
Females: CLcr = 0.85 x above value

HOW SUPPLIED
VANTIN Tablets are available in the following strengths (cefpodoxime equivalent), colors, and sizes:

100 mg (light orange, elliptical, debossed with U3617)
Bottles of 20 NDC 0009-3617-01
Bottles of 100 NDC 0009-3617-02
Unit dose packs of 100 NDC 0009-3617-03

200 mg (coral red, elliptical, debossed with U3618)
Bottles of 20 NDC 0009-3618-01
Bottles of 100 NDC 0009-3618-02
Unit dose packs of 100 NDC 0009-3618-03

Store tablets at controlled room temperature 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP].

Replace cap securely after each opening. Protect unit dose packs from excessive moisture.

VANTIN Oral Suspension provides the equivalent of 50 mg or 100 mg cefpodoxime per 5 mL suspension (when constituted as directed) and is available in lemon creme flavor in the following sizes:

50 mg/5 mL
100-mL suspension NDC 0009-3531-01
75-mL suspension NDC 0009-3531-02
50-mL suspension NDC 0009-3531-03

100 mg/5 mL
100-mL suspension NDC 0009-3615-01
75-mL suspension NDC 0009-3615-02
50-mL suspension NDC 0009-3615-03

Store unsuspended granules at controlled room temperature 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP].

Directions for mixing are included on the label. After mixing, suspension should be stored in a refrigerator, 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F). Shake well before using. Keep container tightly closed. The mixture may be used for 14 days. Discard unused portion after 14 days.

SOURCE:
Package insert data:

Ceftazidime (Fortaz ®)

INDICATIONS AND USAGE:
Ceftazidime for injection, USP is indicated for the treatment of patients with infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated organisms in the following diseases:

1.Lower Respiratory Tract Infections, including pneumonia, caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other Pseudomonas spp.; Haemophilusinfluenzae, including ampicillin-resistant strains; Klebsiella spp.; Enterobacter spp.; Proteus mirabilis; Escherichia coli; Serratia spp.; Citrobacter spp.; Streptococcus pneumoniae; and Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible strains).

2.Skin and Skin-Structure Infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa; Klebsiella spp.; Escherichia coli; Proteus spp., including Proteus mirabilis and indole-positive Proteus; Enterobacter spp.; Serratia spp.; Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible strains); and Streptococcus pyogenes (group A beta-hemolytic streptococci).

3. Urinary Tract Infections, both complicated and uncomplicated, caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa; Enterobacter spp.; Proteus spp., including Proteus mirabilis and indole-positive Proteus; Klebsiella spp.; and Escherichia coli.

4. Bacterial Septicemia caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella spp., Haemophilusinfluenzae, Escherichia coli, Serratia spp., Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible strains).

5. Bone and Joint Infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp., and Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible strains).

6. Gynecologic Infections, including endometritis, pelvic cellulitis, and other infections of the female genital tract caused by Escherichia coli.

7. Intra-abdominal Infections, including peritonitis caused by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible strains) and polymicrobial infections caused by aerobic and anaerobic organisms and Bacteroides spp. (many strains of Bacteroidesfragilis are resistant).

8. Central Nervous System Infections, including meningitis, caused by Haemophilusinfluenzae and Neisseria meningitidis. Ceftazidime has also been used successfully in a limited number of cases of meningitis due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Ceftazidime for injection, USP may be used alone in cases of confirmed or suspected sepsis. Ceftazidime has been used successfully in clinical trials as empiric therapy in cases where various concomitant therapies with other antibiotics have been used.

Ceftazidime for injection, USP may also be used concomitantly with other antibiotics, such as aminoglycosides, vancomycin, and clindamycin; in severe and life-threatening infections; and in the immunocompromised patient. When such concomitant treatment is appropriate, prescribing information in the labeling for the other antibiotics should be followed. The dose depends on the severity of the infection and the patient’s condition.

To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of ceftazidime for injection, USP and other antibacterial drugs, ceftazidime for injection, USP should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:
The usual adult dosage is 1 gram administered intravenously or intramuscularly every 8 to 12 hours. The dosage and route should be determined by the susceptibility of the causative organisms, the severity of infection, and the condition and renal function of the patient.

The guidelines for dosage of ceftazidime for injection are listed in Table 3. The following dosage schedule is recommended.
Table 3. Recommended Dosage Schedule:

Adults Dose Frequency
Usual recommended dosage 1 gram IV or IM q8 to 12hr
Uncomplicated urinary tract infections 250 mg IV or IM q12hr
Bone and joint infections 2 grams IV q12hr
Complicated urinary tract infections 500 mg IV or IM q8 to 12hr
Uncomplicated pneumonia; mild skin and skin-
structure infections
500 mg to 1 gram
IV or IM
q8hr
Serious gynecologic and intra-abdominal
infections
2 grams IV q8hr
Meningitis 2 grams IV q8hr
Very severe life-threatening infections,
especially in immunocompromised patients
2 grams IV q8hr
Lung infections caused by Pseudomonas spp. in
patients with cystic fibrosis with normal renal
function*
30 to 50 mg/kg IV to
a maximum of 6 grams
per day
q8hr
Neonates (0 to 4 weeks) 30 mg/kg IV q12hr
Infants and children
(1 month to 12 years)
30 to 50 mg/kg IV to a
maximum of 6 grams
per day†
q8hr

*Although clinical improvement has been shown, bacteriologic cures cannot be expected in patients with chronic respiratory disease and cystic fibrosis.
† The higher dose should be reserved for immunocompromised pediatric patients or pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis or meningitis.

Renal Dosing:
Ceftazidime is excreted by the kidneys, almost exclusively by glomerular filtration. Therefore, in patients with impaired renal function (glomerular filtration rate [GFR] <50 mL/min), it is recommended that the dosage of ceftazidime be reduced to compensate for its slower excretion. In patients with suspected renal insufficiency, an initial loading dose of 1 gram of ceftazidime may be given. An estimate of GFR should be made to determine the appropriate maintenance dosage. The recommended dosage is presented in Table 4.

Table 4. Recommended Maintenance Dosages of Ceftazidime for Injection in Renal Insufficiency NOTE: IF THE DOSE RECOMMENDED IN TABLE 3 ABOVE IS LOWER THAN THAT RECOMMENDED FOR PATIENTS WITH RENAL INSUFFICIENCY AS OUTLINED IN TABLE 4, THE LOWER DOSE SHOULD BE USED.

Creatinine Clearance
(mL/min)
Recommended Unit
Dose of Ceftazidime for Injection
Frequency of
Dosing

50 to 31

1 gram

q12hr

30 to 16

1 gram

q24hr

15 to 6

500 mg

q24hr

<5

500 mg

q48hr

In patients with severe infections who would normally receive 6 grams of ceftazidime for injection daily were it not for renal insufficiency, the unit dose given in the table above may be increased by 50% or the dosing frequency may be increased appropriately. Further dosing should be determined by therapeutic monitoring, severity of the infection, and susceptibility of the causative organism.

In pediatric patients as for adults, the creatinine clearance should be adjusted for body surface area or lean body mass, and the dosing frequency should be reduced in cases of renal insufficiency.

In patients undergoing hemodialysis, a loading dose of 1 gram is recommended, followed by 1 gram after each hemodialysis period.

Ceftazidime for injection can also be used in patients undergoing intraperitoneal dialysis and continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. In such patients, a loading dose of 1 gram of ceftazidime for injection may be given, followed by 500 mg every 24 hours. In addition to IV use, ceftazidime for injection can be incorporated in the dialysis fluid at a concentration of 250 mg for 2 L of dialysis fluid.

Note: Generally ceftazidime for injection should be continued for 2 days after the signs and symptoms of infection have disappeared, but in complicated infections longer therapy may be required.

SOURCE:
Package insert data:

Ceftibuten (Cedax ®)

INDICATIONS AND USAGE:
CEDAX (ceftibuten) is indicated for the treatment of individuals with mild-to-moderate infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the specific conditions listed below.

Acute Bacterial Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis due to Haemophilus influenzae (including beta-lactamase-producing strains), Moraxella catarrhalis (including beta-lactamase-producing strains), or Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-susceptible strains only).

NOTE: In acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis clinical trials where Moraxella catarrhalis was isolated from infected sputum at baseline, ceftibuten clinical efficacy was 22% less than control.

Acute Bacterial Otitis Media due to Haemophilus influenzae (including beta-lactamase-producing strains), Moraxella catarrhalis (including beta-lactamase-producing strains), or Streptococcus pyogenes.

NOTE: Although ceftibuten used empirically was equivalent to comparators in the treatment of clinically and/or microbiologically documented acute otitis media, the efficacy against Streptococcus pneumoniae was 23% less than control. Therefore, ceftibuten should be given empirically only when adequate antimicrobial coverage against Streptococcus pneumoniae has been previously administered.

Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis due to Streptococcus pyogenes.

NOTE: Only penicillin by the intramuscular route of administration has been shown to be effective in the prophylaxis of rheumatic fever. Ceftibuten is generally effective in the eradication of Streptococcus pyogenes from the oropharynx; however, data establishing the efficacy of the CEDAX product for the prophylaxis of subsequent rheumatic fever are not available.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:
The recommended doses of CEDAX Oral Suspension are presented in the table below. CEDAX Oral Suspension must be administered at least 2 hours before or 1 hour after a meal.

Type of infection (as qualified in the INDICATIONS AND USAGE section of this labeling) Daily Maximum Dose Dose and Frequency Duration
ADULTS (12 years of age and older): 400 mg 400 mg QD 10 days
Acute Bacterial Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis due to H. influenzae (including beta-lactamase-producing strains), M. catarrhalis (including beta-lactamase-producing strains), or Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-susceptible strains only).
Pharyngitis and tonsillitis due to S. pyogenes. Acute Bacterial Otitis Media due to H. influenzae (including beta-lactamase-producing strains), M. catarrhalis (including beta-lactamase-producing strains), or S. pyogenes.
PEDIATRIC PATIENTS: 400 mg 9 mg/kg QD 10 days
Pharyngitis and tonsillitis due to S. pyogenes. Acute Bacterial Otitis Media due to H. influenzae (including beta-lactamase-producing strains), and M. catarrhalis (including beta-lactamase-producing strains), or S. pyogenes.

 

CEFTIBUTEN ORAL SUSPENSION
PEDIATRIC DOSAGE CHART
CHILD'S WEIGHT 90 mg/5 mL 180 mg/5 mL
Pediatric patients weighing more than 45 kg should receive the maximum daily dose of 400 mg.
10 kg 22 lbs 1 tsp QD 1/2 tsp QD
20 kg 44 lbs 2 tsp QD 1 tsp QD
40 kg 88 lbs 4 tsp QD 2 tsp QD

Pediatric patients weighing more than 45 kg should receive the maximum daily dose of 400 mg.

Renal Dosing:
CEDAX Capsules and CEDAX Oral Suspension may be administered at normal doses in the presence of impaired renal function with creatinine clearance of 50 mL/min or greater. The recommendations for dosing in patients with varying degrees of renal insufficiency are presented in the following table.

Creatinine Clearance Recommended Dosing Schedules
(mL/min)
>50 9 mg/kg or 400 mg Q24h
(normal dosing schedule)
30-49 4.5 mg/kg or 200 mg Q24h
5-29 2.25 mg/kg or 100 mg Q24h

Hemodialysis Patients
In patients undergoing hemodialysis two or three times weekly, a single 400-mg dose of ceftibuten capsules or a single dose of 9 mg/kg (maximum of 400 mg of ceftibuten) oral suspension may be administered at the end of each hemodialysis session.

SOURCE:
Package insert data:

Ceftizoxime (Cefizox ®)

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:
The usual adult dosage is 1 or 2 grams of Cefizox (ceftizoxime for injection, USP) every 8 to 12 hours. Proper dosage and route of administration should be determined by the condition of the patient, severity of the infection, and susceptibility of the causative organisms.

General Guidelines for Dosage of Cefizox:

Type of Infection

Daily Dose
(Grams)

Frequency and Route

Uncomplicated
Urinary Tract

1 500 mg q12h IM or IV
Other Sites 2-3 1 gram q8-12h IM or IV

Severe or
Refractory

3-6

1 gram q8h IM or IV
2 grams q8-12h IM* or IV

PID† 6 2 grams q8h IV
Life-Threatening‡ 9-12 3-4 grams q8h IV

* When administering 2 gram IM doses, the dose should be divided and given in different large muscle masses.
† If C. trachomatis is a suspected pathogen, appropriate anti­chlamydial coverage should be added, because ceftizoxime has no activity against this organism.
‡ In life­threatening infections, dosages up to 2 grams every 4 hours have been given.

Because of the serious nature of urinary tract infections due to P. aeruginosa and because many strains of Pseudomonas species are only moderately susceptible to Cefizox, higher dosage is recommended. Other therapy should be instituted if the response is not prompt.

A single, 1 gram IM dose is the usual dose for treatment of uncomplicated gonorrhea.

The IV route may be preferable for patients with bacterial septicemia, localized parenchymal abscesses (such as intra­abdominal abscess), peritonitis, or other severe or life­threatening infections.

In those with normal renal function, the IV dosage for such infections is 2 to 12 grams of Cefizox (ceftizoxime for injection, USP) daily. In conditions such as bacterial septicemia, 6 to 12 grams/day may be given initially by the IV route for several days, and the dosage may then be gradually reduced according to clinical response and laboratory findings.

------------------------------------
Pediatric Dosage Schedule
------------------------------------

Unit Dose Frequency

Pediatric patients 6 months or older

50 mg/kg q6-8h

Dosage may be increased to a total daily dose of 200 mg/kg (not to exceed the maximum adult dose for serious infection).

Renal Dosing:
Modification of Cefizox dosage is necessary in patients with impaired renal function. Following an initial loading dose of 500 mg-1 gram IM or IV, the maintenance dosing schedule shown below should be followed. Further dosing should be determined by therapeutic monitoring, severity of the infection, and susceptibility of the causative organisms.

When only the serum creatinine level is available, creatinine clearance may be calculated from the following formula. The serum creatinine level should represent current renal function at the steady state.

Males

Clcr =Weight (kg) x (140 ­ age) /  [72 x serum creatinine (mg/100 mL)]

Females are 0.85 of the calculated clearance values for males.

In patients undergoing hemodialysis, no additional supplemental dosing is required following hemodialysis; however, dosing should be timed so that the patient receives the dose (according to the table below) at the end of the dialysis.

Dosage in Adults with Reduced Renal Function:

Creatinine Clearance mL/min Renal Function Less Severe Infections Life-Threatening Infections
79-50

Mild Impairment

500 mg q8h

0.75-1.5 grams q8h

49-5

Moderate to severe impairment

250-500 mg q12h

0.5-1 gram q12h

4-0

Dialysis Patients

500 mg q48h

or

250 mg q24h

0.5-1 gram q48h

or

0.5 gram q24h

SOURCE:
Package insert data:

Ceftriaxone (Rocephin ®)

INDICATIONS AND USAGE:
Before instituting treatment with Ceftriaxone for Injection, USP, appropriate specimens should be obtained for isolation of the causative organism and for determination of its susceptibility to the drug. Therapy may be instituted prior to obtaining results of susceptibility testing.

To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Ceftriaxone for Injection, USP, and other antibacterial drugs, Ceftriaxone for Injection, USP, should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.

Ceftriaxone for Injection, USP, is indicated for the treatment of the following infections when caused by susceptible organisms:

Lower Respiratory Tract Infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, Proteus mirabilis or Serratia marcescens.

Acute Bacterial Otitis Media caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae (including beta-lactamase producing strains) or Moraxella catarrhalis (including beta-lactamase producing strains).

NOTE: In one study lower clinical cure rates were observed with a single dose of Ceftriaxone for Injection, USP compared to 10 days of oral therapy. In a second study comparable cure rates were observed between single dose Ceftriaxone for Injection, USP and the comparator. The potentially lower clinical cure rate of Ceftriaxone for Injection, USP should be balanced against the potential advantages of parenteral therapy

Skin And Skin Structure Infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pyogenes, Viridans group streptococci, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella oxytoca, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Morganella morganii,* Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia marcescens, Acinetobacter calcoaceticus, Bacteroides fragilis* or Peptostreptococcus species.

Urinary Tract Infections (complicated and uncomplicated) caused by Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris, Morganella morganii or Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Uncomplicated Gonorrhea (cervical/urethral and rectal) caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, including both penicillinase- and nonpenicillinase-producing strains, and pharyngeal gonorrhea caused by nonpenicillinase-producing strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Ceftriaxone for Injection, USP, like other cephalosporins, has no activity against Chlamydia trachomatis. Therefore, when cephalosporins are used in the treatment of patients with pelvic inflammatory disease and Chlamydia trachomatis is one of the suspected pathogens, appropriate antichlamydial coverage should be added.

Bacterial Septicemia caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Haemophilus influenzae or Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Bone And Joint Infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae or Enterobacter species.

Intra-Abdominal Infections caused by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Bacteroides fragilis, Clostridium species (Note: most strains of Clostridium difficile are resistant) or Peptostreptococcus species.

Meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria meningitidis or Streptococcus pneumoniae. Ceftriaxone for Injection, USP has also been used successfully in a limited number of cases of meningitis and shunt infection caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis* and Escherichia coli.*

*Efficacy for this organism in this organ system was studied in fewer than ten infections.

Surgical Prophylaxis: The preoperative administration of a single 1 gm dose of Ceftriaxone for Injection, USP may reduce the incidence of postoperative infections in patients undergoing surgical procedures classified as contaminated or potentially contaminated (e.g., vaginal or abdominal hysterectomy or cholecystectomy for chronic calculous cholecystitis in high-risk patients, such as those over 70 years of age, with acute cholecystitis not requiring therapeutic antimicrobials, obstructive jaundice or common duct bile stones) and in surgical patients for whom infection at the operative site would present serious risk (e.g., during coronary artery bypass surgery). Although Ceftriaxone for Injection, USP has been shown to have been as effective as cefazolin in the prevention of infection following coronary artery bypass surgery, no placebo-controlled trials have been conducted to evaluate any cephalosporin antibiotic in the prevention of infection following coronary artery bypass surgery.

When administered prior to surgical procedures for which it is indicated, a single 1 gm dose of Ceftriaxone for Injection, USP provides protection from most infections due to susceptible organisms throughout the course of the procedure.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:
Ceftriaxone for injection may be administered intravenously or intramuscularly.
---------------------------
Neonates
---------------------------
Hyperbilirubinemic neonates, especially prematures, should not be treated with ceftriaxone for injection (see package insert for CONTRAINDICATIONS).

Ceftriaxone for injection is contraindicated in neonates if they require (or are expected to require) treatment with calcium-containing IV solutions, including continuous calcium-containing infusions such as parenteral nutrition because of the risk of precipitation of ceftriaxone- calcium (see package insert for CONTRAINDICATIONS).

---------------------------
Pediatric Patients
---------------------------

For the treatment of skin and skin structure infections, the recommended total daily dose is 50 to 75 mg/kg given once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day). The total daily dose should not exceed 2 grams.

For the treatment of acute bacterial otitis media, a single intramuscular dose of 50 mg/kg (not to exceed 1 gram) is recommended (see INDICATIONS AND USAGE).

For the treatment of serious miscellaneous infections other than meningitis, the recommended total daily dose is 50 to 75 mg/kg, given in divided doses every 12 hours. The total daily dose should not exceed 2 grams.

In the treatment of meningitis, it is recommended that the initial therapeutic dose be 100 mg/kg (not to exceed 4 grams). Thereafter, a total daily dose of 100 mg/kg/day (not to exceed 4 grams daily) is recommended. The daily dose may be administered once a day (or in equally divided doses every 12 hours). The usual duration of therapy is 7 to 14 days.

---------------------------
Adults
---------------------------
The usual adult daily dose is 1 to 2 grams given once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day) depending on the type and severity of infection. For infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA), the recommended daily dose is 2 to 4 grams, in order to achieve >90% target attainment. The total daily dose should not exceed 4 grams.

If Chlamydia trachomatis is a suspected pathogen, appropriate antichlamydial coverage should be added, because ceftriaxone sodium has no activity against this organism.

For the treatment of uncomplicated gonococcal infections, a single intramuscular dose of 250 mg is recommended.

For preoperative use (surgical prophylaxis), a single dose of 1 gram administered intravenously 1/2 to 2 hours before surgery is recommended.

Generally, ceftriaxone for injection therapy should be continued for at least 2 days after the signs and symptoms of infection have disappeared. The usual duration of therapy is 4 to 14 days; in complicated infections, longer therapy may be required.

When treating infections caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, therapy should be continued for at least 10 days.

No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with impairment of renal or hepatic function.

SOURCE:
Package insert data:

AVYCAZ ™ (ceftazidime and avibactam)

Drug UPDATES:  AVYCAZ ™  (ceftazidime and avibactam)
[Dosing information  /  PDF]led    Click link for the latest monograph
Dosing:  Click (+) next to Dosage and Administration section

Initial U.S. Approval:  2015

Mechanism of Action
The ceftazidime component of AVYCAZ is a cephalosporin antibacterial drug with in vitro activity against certain gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. The bactericidal action of ceftazidime is mediated through binding to essential penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). The avibactam component of AVYCAZ is a non-beta-lactam beta-lactamase inhibitor that inactivates some beta-lactamases and protects ceftazidime from degradation by certain beta-lactamases. Avibactam does not decrease the activity of ceftazidime against ceftazidime-susceptible organisms.

AVYCAZ demonstrated in vitro activity against Enterobacteriaceae in the presence of some beta-lactamases and extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) of the following groups: TEM, SHV, CTX-M, Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPCs), AmpC, and certain oxacillinases (OXA). AVYCAZ also demonstrated in vitro activity against P. aeruginosa in the presence of some AmpC beta-lactamases, and certain strains lacking outer membrane porin (OprD). AVYCAZ is not active against bacteria that produce metallo-beta lactamases and may not have activity against gram-negative bacteria that overexpress efflux pumps or have porin mutations.

INDICATIONS AND USAGE:
1.1 Complicated Intra-Abdominal Infections (cIAI)
AVYCAZ (ceftazidime and avibactam), in combination with metronidazole, is indicated for the treatment of complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAI) caused by the following susceptible microorganisms: Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Providencia stuartii, Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella oxytoca, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in patients 18 years or older.

As only limited clinical safety and efficacy data for AVYCAZ are currently available, reserve AVYCAZ for use in patients who have limited or no alternative treatment options.

1.2 Complicated Urinary Tract Infections (cUTI), including Pyelonephritis
AVYCAZ (ceftazidime and avibactam) is indicated for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI) including pyelonephritis caused by the following susceptible microorganisms: Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Citrobacter koseri, Enterobacter aerogenes, Enterobacter cloacae, Citrobacter freundii, Proteus spp., and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in patients 18 years or older.

As only limited clinical safety and efficacy data for AVYCAZ are currently available, reserve AVYCAZ for use in patients who have limited or no alternative treatment options.

1.3 Usage
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of AVYCAZ and other antibacterial drugs, AVYCAZ should be used to treat only indicated infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.

HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
AVYCAZ 2.5 grams (ceftazidime and avibactam) for injection is supplied in single-dose, clear glass vial containing: ceftazidime 2 grams (equivalent to 2.635 grams of ceftazidime pentahydrate/sodium carbonate) and avibactam 0.5 grams (equivalent to 0.551 grams of avibactam sodium). Vials are supplied as individual vial (NDC# 0456-2700-01) and in cartons containing 10 vials (NDC# 0456-2700-10)

AVYCAZ vials should be stored at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from light. Store in carton until time of use.

Reference(s)

National Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine, DailyMed Database.
Provides access to the latest drug monographs submitted to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Please review the latest applicable package insert for additional information and possible updates.  A local search option of this data can be found here.

Third Generation Cephalosporins