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ZOSYN (piperacillin and tazobactam) for Injection and ZOSYN (piperacillin and tazobactam) Injection are injectable antibacterial combination products consisting of the semisynthetic antibacterial piperacillin sodium and the β-lactamase inhibitor tazobactam sodium for intravenous administration.
Piperacillin sodium is derived from D(-)-α-aminobenzyl-penicillin. The chemical name of piperacillin sodium is sodium (2S,5R,6R)-6-[(R)-2-(4-ethyl-2,3-dioxo-1-piperazine-carboxamido)-2- phenylacetamido]-3,3-dimethyl-7-oxo-4-thia-1-azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptane-2-carboxylate. The chemical formula is C23H26N5NaO7S and the molecular weight is 539.5. The chemical structure of piperacillin sodium is:
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Tazobactam sodium, a derivative of the penicillin nucleus, is a penicillanic acid sulfone. Its chemical name is sodium (2S,3S,5R)-3-methyl-7-oxo-3-(1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-ylmethyl)-4-thia-1- azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptane-2-carboxylate-4,4-dioxide. The chemical formula is C10H11N4NaO5S and the molecular weight is 322.3. The chemical structure of tazobactam sodium is:
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ZOSYN (piperacillin and tazobactam) for Injection, is a white to off-white sterile, cryodesiccated powder consisting of piperacillin and tazobactam as their sodium salts packaged in glass vials. The formulation also contains edetate disodium dihydrate (EDTA) and sodium citrate.
Each ZOSYN 2.25 g single dose vial contains an amount of drug sufficient for withdrawal of piperacillin sodium equivalent to 2 grams of piperacillin and tazobactam sodium equivalent to 0.25 g of tazobactam. The product also contains 0.5 mg of EDTA per vial.
Each ZOSYN 3.375 g single dose vial contains an amount of drug sufficient for withdrawal of piperacillin sodium equivalent to 3 grams of piperacillin and tazobactam sodium equivalent to 0.375 g of tazobactam. The product also contains 0.75 mg of EDTA per vial.
Each ZOSYN 4.5 g single dose vial contains an amount of drug sufficient for withdrawal of piperacillin sodium equivalent to 4 grams of piperacillin and tazobactam sodium equivalent to 0.5 g of tazobactam. The product also contains 1 mg of EDTA per vial.
Each Zosyn 40.5 g pharmacy bulk vial contains piperacillin sodium equivalent to 36 grams of piperacillin and tazobactam sodium equivalent to 4.5 g of tazobactam sufficient for delivery of multiple doses.
ZOSYN Injection in the GALAXY Container is a frozen iso-osmotic sterile non-pyrogenic premixed solution. The components and dosage formulations are given in the table below:
Table 5: ZOSYN In GALAXY Containers Premixed Frozen Solution
| Component* | Function | Dosage Formulations | ||
| 2.25 g/50 mL | 3.375 g/50 mL | 4.5 g/100 mL | ||
| Piperacillin | active ingredient | 2 g | 3 g | 4 g |
| Tazobactam | β-lactamase inhibitor | 250 mg | 375 mg | 500 mg |
| Dextrose Hydrous | osmolality adjusting agent | 1 g | 350 mg | 2 g |
| Sodium Citrate Dihydrate | buffering agent | 100 mg | 150 mg | 200 mg |
| Edetate Disodium Dihydrate | metal chelator | 0.5 mg | 0.75 mg | 1 mg |
| Water for Injection | solvent | q.s. 50 mL | q.s. 50 mL | q.s. 100 mL |
| *Piperacillin and tazobactam are present in the formulation as sodium salts. Dextrose hydrous, sodium citrate dihydrate, and edetate disodium dihydrate amounts are approximate. | ||||
ZOSYN contains a total of 2.84 mEq (65 mg) of sodium (Na) per gram of piperacillin in the combination product.
Piperacillin and tazobactam is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (2 months of age and older) for the treatment of appendicitis (complicated by rupture or abscess) and peritonitis caused by beta-lactamase producing isolates of Escherichia coli or the following members of the Bacteroides fragilis group: B. fragilis, B. ovatus, B. thetaiotaomicron, or B. vulgatus.
Piperacillin and tazobactam is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (2 months of age and older) for the treatment of nosocomial pneumonia (moderate to severe) caused by beta-lactamase producing isolates of Staphylococcus aureus and by piperacillin and tazobactam-susceptible Acinetobacter baumannii, Haemophilus influenzae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Nosocomial pneumonia caused by P. aeruginosa should be treated in combination with an aminoglycoside) [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Piperacillin and tazobactam is indicated in adults for the treatment of uncomplicated and complicated skin and skin structure infections, including cellulitis, cutaneous abscesses and ischemic/diabetic foot infections caused by beta-lactamase producing isolates of Staphylococcus aureus.
Piperacillin and tazobactam is indicated in adults for the treatment of postpartum endometritis or pelvic inflammatory disease caused by beta-lactamase producing isolates of Escherichia coli.
Piperacillin and tazobactam is indicated in adults for the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia (moderate severity only) caused by beta-lactamase producing isolates of Haemophilus influenzae.
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Piperacillin and tazobactam and other antibacterial drugs, Piperacillin and tazobactam should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by 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.
The usual total daily dosage of Piperacillin and tazobactam for adult patients with indications other than nosocomial pneumonia is 3.375 g every six hours [totaling 13.5 g (12.0 g piperacillin and 1.5 g tazobactam)], to be administered by intravenous infusion over 30 minutes. The usual duration of Piperacillin and tazobactam treatment is from 7 to 10 days.
Initial presumptive treatment of adult patients with nosocomial pneumonia should start with Piperacillin and tazobactam at a dosage of 4.5 g every six hours plus an aminoglycoside, [totaling 18.0 g (16.0 g piperacillin and 2.0 g tazobactam)], administered by intravenous infusion over 30 minutes. The recommended duration of Piperacillin and tazobactam treatment for nosocomial pneumonia is 7 to 14 days. Treatment with the aminoglycoside should be continued in patients from whom P. aeruginosa is isolated.
In adult patients with renal impairment (creatinine clearance ≤ 40 mL/min) and dialysis patients (hemodialysis and CAPD), the intravenous dose of Piperacillin and tazobactam should be reduced based on the degree of renal impairment. The recommended daily dosage of Piperacillin and tazobactam for patients with renal impairment administered by intravenous infusion over 30 minutes is described in Table 1.
Table 1: Recommended Dosage of Piperacillin and tazobactam in Patients with Normal Renal Function and Renal Impairment (As total grams piperacillin and tazobactam)#
| Creatinine clearance, mL/min | All Indications (except nosocomial pneumonia) | NosocomialPneumonia |
| Greater than 40 mL/min | 3.375 every 6 hours | 4.5 every 6 hours |
| 20 to 40 mL/min* | 2.25 every 6 hours | 3.375 every 6 hours |
| Less than 20 mL/min* | 2.25 every 8 hours | 2.25 every 6 hours |
| Hemodialysis** | 2.25 every 12 hours | 2.25 every 8 hours |
| CAPD | 2.25 every 12 hours | 2.25 every 8 hours |
| # Administer Piperacillin and tazobactam by intravenous infusion over 30 minutes. * Creatinine clearance for patients not receiving hemodialysis ** 0.75 g (0.67 g piperacillin and 0.08 g tazobactam) should be administered following each hemodialysis session on hemodialysis days |
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For patients on hemodialysis, the maximum dose is 2.25 g every twelve hours for all indications other than nosocomial pneumonia and 2.25 g every eight hours for nosocomial pneumonia. Since hemodialysis removes 30% to 40% of the administered dose, an additional dose of 0.75 g Piperacillin and tazobactam (0.67 g piperacillin and 0.08 g tazobactam) should be administered following each dialysis period on hemodialysis days. No additional dosage of Piperacillin and tazobactam is necessary for CAPD patients.
The recommended dosage for pediatric patients with appendicitis and/or peritonitis or nosocomial pneumonia aged 2 months of age and older, weighing up to 40 kg, and with normal renal function, is described in Table 2 [see Use In Specific Populations and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Table 2: Recommended Dosage of Piperacillin and tazobactam in Pediatric Patients 2 Months of Age and Older, Weighing Up to 40 kg, and With Normal Renal Function#
| Age | Appendicitis and/or Peritonitis | Nosocomial Pneumonia |
| 2 months to 9months | 90 mg/kg (80 mg piperacillin and 10 mg tazobactam) every 8 (eight) hours |
90 mg/kg (80 mg piperacillin and 10 mg tazobactam) every 6 (six) hours |
| Older than 9 months of age | 112.5 mg/kg (100 mg piperacillin and 12.5 mg tazobactam) every 8 (eight) hours |
112.5 mg/kg (100 mg piperacillin and 12.5 mg tazobactam) every 6 (six) hours |
| # Administer Piperacillin and tazobactam by intravenous infusion over 30 minutes | ||
Pediatric patients weighing over 40 kg and with normal renal function should receive the adult dose [see Dosage In Adult Patients With Indications Other Than Nosocomial Pneumonia, Dosage In Adult Patients With Nosocomial Pneumonia].
Dosage of Piperacillin and tazobactam in pediatric patients with renal impairment has not been determined.
Piperacillin and tazobactam for injection is not currently being marketed.
Reconstitution of Piperacillin and tazobactam for Injection for Adult Patients and Pediatric Patients Weighing Over 40 kg
Reconstituted pharmacy bulk vial solution must be transferred and further diluted for intravenous infusion.
The pharmacy bulk vial is for use in a hospital pharmacy admixture service only under a laminar flow hood. After reconstitution, entry into the vial must be made with a sterile transfer set or other sterile dispensing device, and contents should be dispensed as aliquots into intravenous solution using aseptic technique. Use entire contents of pharmacy bulk vial promptly. Discard unused portion after 24 hours if stored at room temperature (20°C to 25°C [68°F to 77°F]), or after 48 hours if stored at refrigerated temperature (2°C to 8°C [36°F to 46°F]).
Reconstitute the pharmacy bulk vial with exactly 152 mL of a compatible reconstitution diluent, listed below, to a concentration of 200 mg/mL of piperacillin and 25 mg/mL of tazobactam. Shake well until dissolved. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to and during administration whenever solution and container permit.
Reconstitute Piperacillin and tazobactam single-dose vials with a compatible reconstitution diluent from the list provided below.
2.25 g, 3.375 g, and 4.5 g Piperacillin and tazobactam should be reconstituted with 10 mL, 15 mL, and 20 mL, respectively. Swirl until dissolved. After reconstitution, the single-dose vials will have a concentration of 202.5 mg/mL (180 mg/mL of piperacillin and 22.5 mg/mL of tazobactam).
Compatible Reconstitution Diluents for Pharmacy Bulk Vials and Single-Dose Vials
0.9% sodium chloride for injection
Sterile water for injection
Dextrose 5%
Bacteriostatic saline/parabens
Bacteriostatic water/parabens
Bacteriostatic saline/benzyl alcohol
Bacteriostatic water/benzyl alcohol
Dilution of the Reconstituted Piperacillin and tazobactam Solution for Adult Patients and Pediatric Patients Weighing Over 40 kg
Reconstituted Piperacillin and tazobactam solutions for both pharmacy bulk vials and singledose vials should be further diluted (recommended volume per dose of 50 mL to 150 mL) in a compatible intravenous solution listed below. Administer by infusion over a period of at least 30 minutes. During the infusion it is desirable to discontinue the primary infusion solution.
Compatible Intravenous Solutions for Pharmacy Bulk Vials and Single-Dose Vials
0.9% sodium chloride for injection
Sterile water for injection (Maximum recommended volume per dose of sterile water for injection is 50 mL)
Dextran 6% in saline
Dextrose 5%
Lactated Ringer's Solution (compatible only with reformulated Piperacillin and tazobactam containing EDTA and is compatible for co-administration via a Y-site)
Piperacillin and tazobactam should not be mixed with other drugs in a syringe or infusion bottle since compatibility has not been established.
Piperacillin and tazobactam is not chemically stable in solutions that contain only sodium bicarbonate and solutions that significantly alter the pH.
Piperacillin and tazobactam should not be added to blood products or albumin hydrolysates. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter or discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.
Dilution of the Reconstituted Piperacillin and tazobactam Solution for Pediatric Patients Weighing up to 40 kg
The volume of reconstituted solution required to deliver the dose of Piperacillin and tazobactam is dependent on the weight of the child [see Dosage In Pediatric Patients With Appendicitis/Peritonitis Or Nosocomial Pneumonia]. Reconstituted Piperacillin and tazobactam solutions for both bulk and single-dose vials should be further diluted in a compatible intravenous solution listed above.
Table 3: Reconstitution of Single-Dose Vials and Resulting Concentration
| Strength per Single-Dose Vial | Volume of Diluent to be Added to the Vial | Concentration of the Reconstituted Product |
| 2.25 g (2 g piperacillin and 0.25 g tazobactam) | 10 mL | 202.5 mg/mL (180 mg/mL piperacillin and 22.5 mg/mL tazobactam) |
| 3.375 g (3 g piperacillin and 0.375 g tazobactam) | 15 mL | |
| 4.5 g (4 g piperacillin and 0.5 g tazobactam) | 20 mL |
Table 4: Reconstitution of Pharmacy Bulk Vial and Resulting Concentration
| Strength per Pharmacy Bulk Vial | Volume of Diluent to be Added to the Vial | Concentration of the Reconstituted Product |
| 40.5 g (36 g piperacillin and 4.5 g tazobactam) | 152 mL | 225 mg/mL(200 mg/mL piperacillin and 25 mg/mL tazobactam) |
Stability of Piperacillin and Tazobactam for Injection Following Reconstitution and Dilution
Piperacillin and tazobactam for injection reconstituted from pharmacy bulk vials and single-dose vials is stable in glass and plastic containers (plastic syringes, IV bags and tubing) when used with compatible diluents. The pharmacy bulk vials and single-dose vials should NOT be frozen after reconstitution.
Single-dose or pharmacy bulk vials should be used immediately after reconstitution. Discard any unused portion after storage for 24 hours at room temperature (20°C to 25°C [68°F to 77°F]), or after storage for 48 hours at refrigerated temperature (2°C to 8°C [36°F to 46°F]).
Stability studies in the IV bags have demonstrated chemical stability (potency, pH of reconstituted solution and clarity of solution) for up to 24 hours at room temperature and up to one week at refrigerated temperature. Piperacillin and tazobactam for injection contains no preservatives. Appropriate consideration of aseptic technique should be used.
Piperacillin and tazobactam for injection reconstituted from bulk and single-dose vials can be used in ambulatory intravenous infusion pumps. Stability of Piperacillin and tazobactam for injection in an ambulatory intravenous infusion pump has been demonstrated for a period of 12 hours at room temperature. Each dose was reconstituted and diluted to a volume of 37.5 mL or 25 mL. One-day supply of dosing solution were aseptically transferred into the medication reservoir (IV bags or cartridge). The reservoir was fitted to a preprogrammed ambulatory intravenous infusion pump per the manufacturer's instructions. Stability of Piperacillin and tazobactam for injection is not affected when administered using an ambulatory intravenous infusion pump.
Due to the in vitro inactivation of aminoglycosides by piperacillin, Piperacillin and tazobactam and aminoglycosides are recommended for separate administration. Piperacillin and tazobactam and aminoglycosides should be reconstituted, diluted, and administered separately when concomitant therapy with aminoglycosides is indicated [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
In circumstances where co-administration via Y-site is necessary, Piperacillin and tazobactam formulations containing EDTA are compatible for simultaneous co-administration via Y-site infusion only with the following aminoglycosides under the following conditions:
Table 5: Compatibility with Aminoglycosides
| Aminoglyco side | Piperacillin and tazobactam Dose (grams) | Piperacillin and tazobactam Diluent Volume a(mL) | Aminoglycoside Concentration Range b (mg/mL) | Acceptable Diluents |
| Amikacin | 2.25 | 50 | 1.75 - 7.5 | 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% dextrose |
| 3.375 | 100 | |||
| 4.5 | 150 | |||
| Gentamicin | 2.25 | 50 | 0.7 - 3.32 | 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% dextrose |
| 3.375 | 100 | |||
| 4.5 | 150 | |||
| a Diluent volumes apply only to single vials and bulk pharmacy containers b The concentration ranges in Table 5 are based on administration of the aminoglycoside in divided doses (10- 15 mg/kg/day in two daily doses for amikacin and 3-5 mg/kg/day in three daily doses for gentamicin). Administration of amikacin or gentamicin in a single daily dose or in doses exceeding those stated above via Ysite with Piperacillin and tazobactam containing EDTA has not been evaluated. See package insert for each aminoglycoside for complete Dosage and Administration instructions. |
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Only the concentration and diluents for amikacin or gentamicin with the dosages of Piperacillin and tazobactam listed above have been established as compatible for co-administration via Y-site infusion. Simultaneous co-administration via Y-site infusion in any manner other than listed above may result in inactivation of the aminoglycoside by Piperacillin and tazobactam.
Piperacillin and tazobactam is not compatible with tobramycin for simultaneous coadministration via Y-site infusion. Compatibility of Piperacillin and tazobactam with other aminoglycosides has not been established.
Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.
Piperacillin and tazobactam for injection is a white to off-white powder in vials [all strengths of Piperacillin and tazobactam for injection are not currently being marketed]:
Piperacillin and tazobactam for injection was supplied as single-dose vials and pharmacy bulk vials in the following sizes; however all strengths of Piperacillin and tazobactam for injection are not currently being marketed:
Store Piperacillin and tazobactam for injection vials at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C [68°F to 77°F]) prior to reconstitution.
Distributed by: Pfizer, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, A subsidiary of Pfizer Inc. Philadelphia, PA 19101. Revised: May 2024
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
During the initial clinical investigations, 2621 patients worldwide were treated with Piperacillin and tazobactam in phase 3 trials. In the key North American monotherapy clinical trials (n=830 patients), 90% of the adverse events reported were mild to moderate in severity and transient in nature. However, in 3.2% of the patients treated worldwide, Piperacillin and tazobactam was discontinued because of adverse events primarily involving the skin (1.3%), including rash and pruritus; the gastrointestinal system (0.9%), including diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting; and allergic reactions (0.5%).
Table 6: Adverse Reactions from Piperacillin and Tazobactam Monotherapy Clinical Trials
| System Organ Class Adverse Reaction |
| Gastrointestinal disorders |
| Diarrhea (11.3%) |
| Constipation (7.7%) |
| Nausea (6.9%) |
| Vomiting (3.3%) |
| Dyspepsia (3.3%) |
| Abdominal pain (1.3%) |
| General disorders and administration site conditions |
| Fever (2.4%) |
| Injection site reaction (≤1%) |
| Rigors (≤1%) |
| Immune system disorders |
| Anaphylaxis (≤1%) |
| Infections and infestations |
| Candidiasis (1.6%) |
| Pseudomembranous colitis (≤1%) |
| Metabolism and nutrition disorders |
| Hypoglycemia (≤1%) |
| Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders |
| Myalgia (≤1%) |
| Arthralgia (≤1%) |
| Nervous system disorders |
| Headache (7.7%) |
| Psychiatric disorders |
| Insomnia (6.6%) |
| Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders |
| Rash (4.2%, including maculopapular, bullous, and urticarial) |
| Pruritus (3.1%) |
| Purpura (≤1%) |
| Vascular disorders |
| Phlebitis (1.3%) |
| Thrombophlebitis (≤1%) |
| Hypotension (≤1%) |
| Flushing (≤1%) |
| Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders |
| Epistaxis (≤1%) |
Two trials of nosocomial lower respiratory tract infections were conducted. In one study, 222 patients were treated with Piperacillin and tazobactam in a dosing regimen of 4.5 g every 6 hours in combination with an aminoglycoside and 215 patients were treated with imipenem/cilastatin (500 mg/500 mg every 6 hours) in combination with an aminoglycoside. In this trial, treatmentemergent adverse events were reported by 402 patients, 204 (91.9%) in the piperacillin and tazobactam group and 198 (92.1%) in the imipenem/cilastatin group. Twenty-five (11.0%) patients in the piperacillin and tazobactam group and 14 (6.5%) in the imipenem/cilastatin group (p > 0.05) discontinued treatment due to an adverse event.
The second trial used a dosing regimen of 3.375 g given every 4 hours with an aminoglycoside.
Table 7: Adverse Reactions from Piperacillin and Tazobactam Plus Aminoglycoside Clinical Trialsa
| System Organ Class Adverse Reaction |
| Blood and lymphatic system disorders |
| Thrombocythemia (1.4%) |
| Anemia (≤1%) |
| Thrombocytopenia (≤1%) |
| Eosinophilia (≤1%) |
| Gastrointestinal disorders |
| Diarrhea (20%) |
| Constipation (8.4%) |
| Nausea (5.8%) |
| Vomiting (2.7%) |
| Dyspepsia (1.9%) |
| Abdominal pain (1.8%) |
| Stomatitis (≤1%) |
| General disorders and administration site conditions |
| Fever (3.2%) |
| Injection site reaction (≤1%) |
| Infections and infestations |
| Oral candidiasis (3.9%) |
| Candidiasis (1.8%) |
| Investigations |
| BUN increased (1.8%) |
| Blood creatinine increased (1.8%) |
| Liver function test abnormal (1.4%) |
| Alkaline phosphatase increased (≤1%) |
| Aspartate aminotransferase increased (≤1%) |
| Alanine aminotransferase increased (≤1%) |
| Metabolism and nutrition disorders |
| Hypoglycemia (≤1%) |
| Hypokalemia (≤1%) |
| Nervous system disorders |
| Headache (4.5%) |
| Psychiatric disorders |
| Insomnia (4.5%) |
| Renal and urinary disorders |
| Renal failure (≤1%) |
| Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders |
| Rash (3.9%) |
| Pruritus (3.2%) |
| Vascular disorders |
| Thrombophlebitis (1.3%) |
| Hypotension (1.3%) |
| a For adverse drug reactions that appeared in both studies the higher frequency is presented. |
In a randomized, multicenter, controlled trial in 1200 adult critically ill patients, piperacillin and tazobactam was found to be a risk factor for renal failure (odds ratio 1.7, 95% CI 1.18 to 2.43), and associated with delayed recovery of renal function as compared to other beta-lactam antibacterial drugs1 [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Adverse Laboratory Changes (Seen During Clinical Trials)
Of the trials reported, including that of nosocomial lower respiratory tract infections in which a higher dose of Piperacillin and tazobactam was used in combination with an aminoglycoside, changes in laboratory parameters include:
Hematologic - decreases in hemoglobin and hematocrit, thrombocytopenia, increases in platelet count, eosinophilia, leukopenia, neutropenia. These patients were withdrawn from therapy; some had accompanying systemic symptoms (e.g., fever, rigors, chills)
Coagulation - positive direct Coombs' test, prolonged prothrombin time, prolonged partial thromboplastin time
Hepatic - transient elevations of AST (SGOT), ALT (SGPT), alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin
Renal - increases in serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen
Additional laboratory events include abnormalities in electrolytes (i.e., increases and decreases in sodium, potassium, and calcium), hyperglycemia, decreases in total protein or albumin, blood glucose decreased, gamma-glutamyltransferase increased, hypokalemia, and bleeding time prolonged.
Clinical studies of Piperacillin and tazobactam in pediatric patients suggest a similar safety profile to that seen in adults.
In a prospective, randomized, comparative, open-label clinical trial of pediatric patients, 2 to 12 years of age, with intra-abdominal infections (including appendicitis and/or peritonitis), 273 patients were treated with Piperacillin and tazobactam 112.5 mg/kg given IV every 8 hours and 269 patients were treated with cefotaxime (50 mg/kg) plus metronidazole (7.5 mg/kg) every 8 hours. In this trial, treatment-emergent adverse events were reported by 146 patients, 73 (26.7%) in the Piperacillin and tazobactam group and 73 (27.1%) in the cefotaxime/metronidazole group. Six patients (2.2%) in the Piperacillin and tazobactam group and 5 patients (1.9%) in the cefotaxime/metronidazole group discontinued due to an adverse event.
In a retrospective, cohort study, 140 pediatric patients 2 months to less than 18 years of age with nosocomial pneumonia were treated with Piperacillin and tazobactam and 267 patients were treated with comparators (which included ticarcillin-clavulanate, carbapenems, ceftazidime, cefepime, or ciprofloxacin). The rates of serious adverse reactions were generally similar between the Piperacillin and tazobactam and comparator groups, including patients aged 2 months to 9 months treated with Piperacillin and tazobactam 90 mg/kg IV every 6 hours and patients older than 9 months and less than 18 years of age treated with Piperacillin and tazobactam 112.5 mg/kg IV every 6 hours.
In addition to the adverse drug reactions identified in clinical trials in Table 6 and Table 7, the following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of Piperacillin and tazobactam. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Hepatobiliary - hepatitis, jaundice
Hematologic - hemolytic anemia, agranulocytosis, pancytopenia
Immune - hypersensitivity reactions, anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions (including shock), hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), acute myocardial ischemia with or without myocardial infarction may occur as part of an allergic reaction
Renal - interstitial nephritis
Nervous system disorders - seizures
Psychiatric disorders - delirium
Respiratory - eosinophilic pneumonia
Skin and Appendages - erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), dermatitis exfoliative, and linear IgA bullous dermatosis
Postmarketing experience with Piperacillin and tazobactam in pediatric patients suggests a similar safety profile to that seen in adults.
The following adverse reaction has also been reported for piperacillin for injection:
Skeletal - prolonged neuromuscular blockade [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Piperacillin may inactivate aminoglycosides by converting them to microbiologically inert amides.
When aminoglycosides are administered in conjunction with piperacillin to patients with end-stage renal disease requiring hemodialysis, the concentrations of the aminoglycosides (especially tobramycin) may be significantly reduced and should be monitored.
Sequential administration of Piperacillin and tazobactam and tobramycin to patients with either normal renal function or mild to moderate renal impairment has been shown to modestly decrease serum concentrations of tobramycin but no dosage adjustment is considered necessary.
Due to the in vitro inactivation of aminoglycosides by piperacillin, Piperacillin and tazobactam and aminoglycosides are recommended for separate administration. Piperacillin and tazobactam and aminoglycosides should be reconstituted, diluted, and administered separately when concomitant therapy with aminoglycosides is indicated. Piperacillin and tazobactam, which contains EDTA, is compatible with amikacin and gentamicin for simultaneous Y-site infusion in certain diluents and at specific concentrations. Piperacillin and tazobactam is not compatible with tobramycin for simultaneous Y-site infusion [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Probenecid administered concomitantly with Piperacillin and tazobactam prolongs the half-life of piperacillin by 21% and that of tazobactam by 71% because probenecid inhibits tubular renal secretion of both piperacillin and tazobactam. Probenecid should not be co-administered with Piperacillin and tazobactam unless the benefit outweighs the risk.
Studies have detected an increased incidence of acute kidney injury in patients concomitantly administered piperacillin and tazobactam and vancomycin as compared to vancomycin alone [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Monitor kidney function in patients concomitantly administered with piperacillin and tazobactam and vancomycin.
No pharmacokinetic interactions have been noted between piperacillin and tazobactam and vancomycin.
Coagulation parameters should be tested more frequently and monitored regularly during simultaneous administration of high doses of heparin, oral anticoagulants, or other drugs that may affect the blood coagulation system or the thrombocyte function [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Piperacillin when used concomitantly with vecuronium has been implicated in the prolongation of the neuromuscular blockade of vecuronium. Piperacillin and tazobactam could produce the same phenomenon if given along with vecuronium. Due to their similar mechanism of action, it is expected that the neuromuscular blockade produced by any of the non-depolarizing neuromuscular blockers could be prolonged in the presence of piperacillin. Monitor for adverse reactions related to neuromuscular blockade (see package insert for vecuronium bromide).
Limited data suggests that co-administration of methotrexate and piperacillin may reduce the clearance of methotrexate due to competition for renal secretion. The impact of tazobactam on the elimination of methotrexate has not been evaluated. If concurrent therapy is necessary, serum concentrations of methotrexate as well as the signs and symptoms of methotrexate toxicity should be frequently monitored.
There have been reports of positive test results using the Bio-Rad Laboratories Platelia Aspergillus EIA test in patients receiving piperacillin and tazobactam injection who were subsequently found to be free of Aspergillus infection. Cross-reactions with non-Aspergillus polysaccharides and polyfuranoses with the Bio-Rad Laboratories Platelia Aspergillus EIA test have been reported. Therefore, positive test results in patients receiving piperacillin and tazobactam should be interpreted cautiously and confirmed by other diagnostic methods.
As with other penicillins, the administration of Piperacillin and tazobactam may result in a falsepositive reaction for glucose in the urine using a copper-reduction method (CLINITEST®). It is recommended that glucose tests based on enzymatic glucose oxidase reactions be used.
Included as part of the "PRECAUTIONS" Section
Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity (anaphylactic/anaphylactoid) reactions (including shock) have been reported in patients receiving therapy with Piperacillin and tazobactam. These reactions are more likely to occur in individuals with a history of penicillin, cephalosporin, or carbapenem hypersensitivity or a history of sensitivity to multiple allergens. Before initiating therapy with Piperacillin and tazobactam, careful inquiry should be made concerning previous hypersensitivity reactions. If an allergic reaction occurs, Piperacillin and tazobactam should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted.
Piperacillin and tazobactam may cause severe cutaneous adverse reactions, such as Stevens- Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis. If patients develop a skin rash they should be monitored closely and Piperacillin and tazobactam discontinued if lesions progress.
Cases of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) have been reported in pediatric and adult patients treated with Piperacillin and tazobactam. Signs and symptoms of HLH may include fever, rash, lymphadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly and cytopenia. If HLH is suspected, discontinue Piperacillin and tazobactam immediately and institute appropriate management.
Bleeding manifestations have occurred in some patients receiving beta-lactam drugs, including piperacillin. These reactions have sometimes been associated with abnormalities of coagulation tests such as clotting time, platelet aggregation and prothrombin time, and are more likely to occur in patients with renal failure. If bleeding manifestations occur, Piperacillin and tazobactam should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted.
The leukopenia/neutropenia associated with Piperacillin and tazobactam administration appears to be reversible and most frequently associated with prolonged administration.
Periodic assessment of hematopoietic function should be performed, especially with prolonged therapy, i.e., ≥ 21 days [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].
As with other penicillins, Piperacillin and tazobactam may cause neuromuscular excitability or seizures. Patients receiving higher doses, especially patients with renal impairment may be at greater risk for central nervous system adverse reactions. Closely monitor patients with renal impairment or seizure disorders for signs and symptoms of neuromuscular excitability or seizures [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].
The use of Piperacillin and tazobactam was found to be an independent risk factor for renal failure and was associated with delayed recovery of renal function as compared to other betalactam antibacterial drugs in a randomized, multicenter, controlled trial in critically ill patients [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Based on this study, alternative treatment options should be considered in the critically ill population. If alternative treatment options are inadequate or unavailable, monitor renal function during treatment with Piperacillin and tazobactam [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Combined use of piperacillin and tazobactam and vancomycin may be associated with an increased incidence of acute kidney injury [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Piperacillin and tazobactam contains a total of 2.84 mEq (65 mg) of Na+ (sodium) per gram of piperacillin in the combination product. This should be considered when treating patients requiring restricted salt intake. Periodic electrolyte determinations should be performed in patients with low potassium reserves, and the possibility of hypokalemia should be kept in mind with patients who have potentially low potassium reserves and who are receiving cytotoxic therapy or diuretics.
Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including Piperacillin and tazobactam, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.
C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibacterial drug use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.
If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial drug use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibacterial treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.
Prescribing Piperacillin and tazobactam in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of development of drug-resistant bacteria.
Long-term carcinogenicity studies in animals have not been conducted with piperacillin and tazobactam, piperacillin, or tazobactam.
Piperacillin and tazobactam was negative in microbial mutagenicity assays, the unscheduled DNA synthesis (UDS) test, a mammalian point mutation (Chinese hamster ovary cell HPRT) assay, and a mammalian cell (BALB/c-3T3) transformation assay. In vivo, piperacillin and tazobactam did not induce chromosomal aberrations in rats.
Reproduction studies have been performed in rats and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility when piperacillin and tazobactam is administered intravenously up to a dose of 1280/320 mg/kg piperacillin and tazobactam, which is similar to the maximum recommended human daily dose based on body-surface area (mg/m2).
Piperacillin and tazobactam cross the placenta in humans. However, there are insufficient data with piperacillin and/or tazobactam in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage. No fetal structural abnormalities were observed in rats or mice when piperacillin and tazobactam was administered intravenously during organogenesis at doses 1 to 2 times and 2 to 3 times the human dose of piperacillin and tazobactam, respectively, based on body-surface area (mg/m2). However, fetotoxicity in the presence of maternal toxicity was observed in developmental toxicity and peri/postnatal studies conducted in rats (intraperitoneal administration prior to mating and throughout gestation or from gestation day 17 through lactation day 21) at doses less than the maximum recommended human daily dose based on body-surface area (mg/m2) (see Data).
The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively.
Animal Data
In embryo-fetal development studies in mice and rats, pregnant animals received intravenous doses of piperacillin and tazobactam up to 3000/750 mg/kg/day during the period of organogenesis. There was no evidence of teratogenicity up to the highest dose evaluated, which is 1 to 2 times and 2 to 3 times the human dose of piperacillin and tazobactam, in mice and rats respectively, based on body-surface area (mg/m2). Fetal body weights were reduced in rats at maternally toxic doses at or above 500/62.5 mg/kg/day, minimally representing 0.4 times the human dose of both piperacillin and tazobactam based on body-surface area (mg/m2).
A fertility and general reproduction study in rats using intraperitoneal administration of tazobactam or the combination piperacillin and tazobactam prior to mating and through the end of gestation, reported a decrease in litter size in the presence of maternal toxicity at 640 mg/kg/day tazobactam (4 times the human dose of tazobactam based on body-surface area), and decreased litter size and an increase in fetuses with ossification delays and variations of ribs, concurrent with maternal toxicity at ≥640/160 mg/kg/day piperacillin and tazobactam (0.5 times and 1 times the human dose of piperacillin and tazobactam, respectively, based on body-surface area).
Peri/postnatal development in rats was impaired with reduced pup weights, increased stillbirths, and increased pup mortality concurrent with maternal toxicity after intraperitoneal administration of tazobactam alone at doses ≥320 mg/kg/day (2 times the human dose based on body surface area) or of the combination piperacillin and tazobactam at doses ≥640/160 mg/kg/day (0.5 times and 1 times the human dose of piperacillin and tazobactam, respectively, based on body-surface area) from gestation day 17 through lactation day 21.
Piperacillin is excreted in human milk; tazobactam concentrations in human milk have not been studied. No information is available on the effects of piperacillin and tazobactam on the breastfed child or on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for Piperacillin and tazobactam and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from Piperacillin and tazobactam or from the underlying maternal condition.
The safety and effectiveness of Piperacillin and tazobactam for intra-abdominal infections, and nosocomial pneumonia have been established in pediatric patients 2 months of age and older.
Use of Piperacillin and tazobactam in pediatric patients 2 months of age and older with intraabdominal infections including appendicitis and/or peritonitis is supported by evidence from well-controlled studies and pharmacokinetic studies in adults and in pediatric patients. This includes a prospective, randomized, comparative, open-label clinical trial with 542 pediatric patients 2 to 12 years of age with intra-abdominal infections (including appendicitis and/or peritonitis), in which 273 pediatric patients received piperacillin and tazobactam [see ADVERSE REACTIONS and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Use of Piperacillin and tazobactam in pediatric patients 2 months of age and older with nosocomial pneumonia is supported by evidence from well-controlled studies in adults with nosocomial pneumonia, a simulation study performed with a population pharmacokinetic model, and a retrospective, cohort study of pediatric patients with nosocomial pneumonia in which 140 pediatric patients were treated with Piperacillin and tazobactam and 267 patients treated with comparators (which included ticarcillin-clavulanate, carbapenems, ceftazidime, cefepime, or ciprofloxacin) [see ADVERSE REACTIONS and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
The safety and effectiveness of Piperacillin and tazobactam have not been established in pediatric patients less than 2 months of age [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Dosage of Piperacillin and tazobactam in pediatric patients with renal impairment has not been determined.
Patients over 65 years are not at an increased risk of developing adverse effects solely because of age. However, dosage should be adjusted in the presence of renal impairment [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.
Piperacillin and tazobactam contains 65 mg (2.84 mEq) of sodium per gram of piperacillin in the combination product. At the usual recommended doses, patients would receive between 780 and 1040 mg/day (34.1 and 45.5 mEq) of sodium. The geriatric population may respond with a blunted natriuresis to salt loading. This may be clinically important with regard to such diseases as congestive heart failure.
This drug is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of toxic reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function.
In patients with creatinine clearance ≤ 40 mL/min and dialysis patients (hemodialysis and CAPD), the intravenous dose of Piperacillin and tazobactam should be reduced to the degree of renal function impairment [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Dosage adjustment of Piperacillin and tazobactam is not warranted in patients with hepatic cirrhosis [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
As with other semisynthetic penicillins, piperacillin therapy has been associated with an increased incidence of fever and rash in cystic fibrosis patients.
There have been postmarketing reports of overdose with piperacillin and tazobactam. The majority of those events experienced, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, have also been reported with the usual recommended dosages. Patients may experience neuromuscular excitability or seizures if higher than recommended doses are given intravenously (particularly in the presence of renal failure) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Treatment should be supportive and symptomatic according to the patient's clinical presentation. Excessive serum concentrations of either piperacillin or tazobactam may be reduced by hemodialysis. Following a single 3.375 g dose of piperacillin and tazobactam, the percentage of the piperacillin and tazobactam dose removed by hemodialysis was approximately 31% and 39%, respectively [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Piperacillin and tazobactam is contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to any of the penicillins, cephalosporins, or beta-lactamase inhibitors.
Piperacillin and tazobactam is an antibacterial drug [see Microbiology].
The pharmacodynamic parameter for piperacillin and tazobactam that is most predictive of clinical and microbiological efficacy is time above MIC.
The mean and coefficients of variation (CV%) for the pharmacokinetic parameters of piperacillin and tazobactam after multiple intravenous doses are summarized in Table 8.
Table 8: Mean (CV%) Piperacillin and Tazobactam PK Parameters
| Piperacillin | ||||||
| Piperacillin and Tazobactam Dosea | Cmax (mcg/mL) |
AUCb (mcg•h/mL) |
CL (mL/min) |
V (L) |
T1/2 (h) |
CLR (mL/min) |
| 2.25 g | 134 | 131 [14] | 257 | 17.4 | 0.79 | - |
| 3.375 g | 242 | 242 [10] | 207 | 15.1 | 0.84 | 140 |
| 4.5 g | 298 | 322 [16] | 210 | 15.4 | 0.84 | - |
| Tazobactam | ||||||
| Piperacillin and Tazobactam Dosea |
Cmax (mcg/mL) |
AUCb (mcg•h/mL) |
CL (mL/min) |
V (L) |
T1/2 (h) |
CLR (mL/min) |
| 2.25 g | 15 | 16.0 [21] | 258 | 17.0 | 0.77 | - |
| 3.375 g | 24 | 25.0 [8] | 251 | 14.8 | 0.68 | 166 |
| 4.5 g | 34 | 39.8 [15] | 206 | 14.7 | 0.82 | - |
| a Piperacillin and tazobactam were given in combination, infused over 30 minutes. b Numbers in []parentheses are coefficients of variation [CV%]. Cmax : maximum observed concentration, AUC: Area under the curve, CL=clearance, CLR= Renal clearance V=volume of distribution, T1/2 = elimination half-life |
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Peak plasma concentrations of piperacillin and tazobactam are attained immediately after completion of an intravenous infusion of Piperacillin and tazobactam. Piperacillin plasma concentrations, following a 30-minute infusion of Piperacillin and tazobactam, were similar to those attained when equivalent doses of piperacillin were administered alone. Steady-state plasma concentrations of piperacillin and tazobactam were similar to those attained after the first dose due to the short half-lives of piperacillin and tazobactam.
Both piperacillin and tazobactam are approximately 30% bound to plasma proteins. The protein binding of either piperacillin or tazobactam is unaffected by the presence of the other compound. Protein binding of the tazobactam metabolite is negligible.
Piperacillin and tazobactam are widely distributed into tissues and body fluids including intestinal mucosa, gallbladder, lung, female reproductive tissues (uterus, ovary, and fallopian tube), interstitial fluid, and bile. Mean tissue concentrations are generally 50% to 100% of those in plasma. Distribution of piperacillin and tazobactam into cerebrospinal fluid is low in subjects with non-inflamed meninges, as with other penicillins (see Table 9).
Table 9: Piperacillin and Tazobactam Concentrations in Selected Tissues and Fluids after Single 4 g/0.5 g 30-min IV Infusion of Piperacillin and tazobactam
| issue or Fluid | Na | Sampling periodb (h) | Mean PIP Concentration Range(mg/L) | Tissue: Plasma Range | Tazo Concentration Range(mg/L) | Tazo Tissue: Plasma Range |
| Skin | 35 | 0.5 – 4.5 | 34.8 – 94.2 | 0.60 – 1.1 | 4.0 – 7.7 | 0.49 – 0.93 |
| Fatty Tissue | 37 | 0.5 – 4.5 | 4.0 – 10.1 | 0.097 – 0.115 | 0.7 – 1.5 | 0.10 – 0.13 |
| Muscle | 36 | 0.5 – 4.5 | 9.4 – 23.3 | 0.29 – 0.18 | 1.4 – 2.7 | 0.18 – 0.30 |
| ProximalIntestinalMucosa | 7 | 1.5 – 2.5 | 31.4 | 0.55 | 10.3 | 1.15 |
| DistalIntestinalMucosa | 7 | 1.5 – 2.5 | 31.2 | 0.59 | 14.5 | 2.1 |
| Appendix | 22 | 0.5 – 2.5 | 26.5 – 64.1 | 0.43 – 0.53 | 9.1 – 18.6 | 0.80 – 1.35 |
| a Each subject provided a single sample. b Time from the start of the infusion |
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Piperacillin is metabolized to a minor microbiologically active desethyl metabolite. Tazobactam is metabolized to a single metabolite that lacks pharmacological and antibacterial activities.
Following single or multiple Piperacillin and tazobactam doses to healthy subjects, the plasma half-life of piperacillin and of tazobactam ranged from 0.7 to 1.2 hours and was unaffected by dose or duration of infusion.
Both piperacillin and tazobactam are eliminated via the kidney by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. Piperacillin is excreted rapidly as unchanged drug with 68% of the administered dose excreted in the urine. Tazobactam and its metabolite are eliminated primarily by renal excretion with 80% of the administered dose excreted as unchanged drug and the remainder as the single metabolite. Piperacillin, tazobactam and desethyl piperacillin are also secreted into the bile.
After the administration of single doses of piperacillin and tazobactam to subjects with renal impairment, the half-life of piperacillin and of tazobactam increases with decreasing creatinine clearance. At creatinine clearance below 20 mL/min, the increase in half-life is twofold for piperacillin and fourfold for tazobactam compared to subjects with normal renal function. Dosage adjustments for Piperacillin and tazobactam are recommended when creatinine clearance is below 40 mL/min in patients receiving the usual recommended daily dose of Piperacillin and tazobactam. See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION for specific recommendations for the treatment of patients with renal-impairment.
Hemodialysis removes 30% to 40% of a piperacillin and tazobactam dose with an additional 5% of the tazobactam dose removed as the tazobactam metabolite. Peritoneal dialysis removes approximately 6% and 21% of the piperacillin and tazobactam doses, respectively, with up to 16% of the tazobactam dose removed as the tazobactam metabolite. For dosage recommendations for patients undergoing hemodialysis [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
The half-life of piperacillin and of tazobactam increases by approximately 25% and 18%, respectively, in patients with hepatic cirrhosis compared to healthy subjects. However, this difference does not warrant dosage adjustment of Piperacillin and tazobactam due to hepatic cirrhosis.
Piperacillin and tazobactam pharmacokinetics were studied in pediatric patients 2 months of age and older. The clearance of both compounds is slower in the younger patients compared to older children and adults.
In a population PK analysis, estimated clearance for 9 month-old to 12 year-old patients was comparable to adults, with a population mean (SE) value of 5.64 (0.34) mL/min/kg. The piperacillin clearance estimate is 80% of this value for pediatric patients 2 - 9 months old. In patients younger than 2 months of age, clearance of piperacillin is slower compared to older children; however, it is not adequately characterized for dosing recommendations. The population mean (SE) for piperacillin volume of distribution is 0.243 (0.011) L/kg and is independent of age.
The impact of age on the pharmacokinetics of piperacillin and tazobactam was evaluated in healthy male subjects, aged 18 - 35 years (n=6) and aged 65 to 80 years (n=12). Mean half-life for piperacillin and tazobactam was 32% and 55% higher, respectively, in the elderly compared to the younger subjects. This difference may be due to age-related changes in creatinine clearance.
The effect of race on piperacillin and tazobactam was evaluated in healthy male volunteers. No difference in piperacillin or tazobactam pharmacokinetics was observed between Asian (n=9) and Caucasian (n=9) healthy volunteers who received single 4/0.5 g doses.
The potential for pharmacokinetic drug interactions between Piperacillin and tazobactam and aminoglycosides, probenecid, vancomycin, heparin, vecuronium, and methotrexate has been evaluated [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Piperacillin sodium exerts bactericidal activity by inhibiting septum formation and cell wall synthesis of susceptible bacteria. In vitro, piperacillin is active against a variety of gram-positive and gram-negative aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. Tazobactam sodium has little clinically relevant in vitro activity against bacteria due to its reduced affinity to penicillin-binding proteins. It is, however, a beta-lactamase inhibitor of the Molecular class A enzymes, including Richmond-Sykes class III (Bush class 2b & 2b') penicillinases and cephalosporinases. It varies in its ability to inhibit class II and IV (2a & 4) penicillinases. Tazobactam does not induce chromosomally-mediated beta-lactamases at tazobactam concentrations achieved with the recommended dosage regimen.
Piperacillin and tazobactam has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections [see INDICATIONS]:
Gram-positive Bacteria
Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin susceptible isolates only)
Gram-negative Bacteria
Acinetobacter baumannii
Escherichia coli
Haemophilus influenzae (excluding beta-lactamase negative, ampicillin-resistant isolates)
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Pseudomonas aeruginosa (given in combination with an aminoglycoside to which the isolate is susceptible)
Bacteroides fragilis group (B. fragilis, B. ovatus, B. thetaiotaomicron, and B. vulgatus)
The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown. At least 90 percent of the following bacteria exhibit an in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) less than or equal to the susceptible breakpoint for piperacillin and tazobactam against isolates of similar genus or organism group. However, the efficacy of Piperacillin and tazobactam in treating clinical infections caused by these bacteria has not been established in adequate and well-controlled clinical trials.
Gram-positive Bacteria
Enterococcus faecalis (ampicillin or penicillin-susceptible isolates only)
Staphylococcus epidermidis (methicillin susceptible isolates only)
Streptococcus agalactiae†
Streptococcus pneumoniae† (penicillin-susceptible isolates only)
Streptococcus pyogenes†
Viridans group streptococci†
Gram-negative Bacteria
Citrobacter koseri
Moraxella catarrhalis
Morganella morganii
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Proteus mirabilis
Proteus vulgaris
Serratia marcescens
Providencia stuartii
Providencia rettgeri
Salmonella enterica
Anaerobic Bacteria
Clostridium perfringens
Bacteroides distasonis
Prevotella melaninogenica
† These are not beta-lactamase producing bacteria and, therefore, are susceptible to piperacillin alone.
For specific information regarding susceptibility test interpretive criteria, and associated test methods and quality control standards recognized by FDA for this drug, please see: https://www.fda.gov/STIC.
Advise patients, their families, or caregivers that serious hypersensitivity reactions, including serious allergic cutaneous reactions, could occur with use of Piperacillin and tazobactam that require immediate treatment. Ask them about any previous hypersensitivity reactions to Piperacillin and tazobactam, other beta-lactams (including cephalosporins), or other allergens [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Prior to initiation of treatment with Piperacillin and tazobactam, inform patients that excessive immune activation may occur with Piperacillin and tazobactam and that they should report signs or symptoms such as fever, rash, or lymphadenopathy to a healthcare provider immediately [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients, their families, or caregivers that diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibacterial drugs, including Piperacillin and tazobactam, which usually ends when the drug is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibacterial drugs, patients can develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or more months after having taken the last dose of the drug. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including Piperacillin and tazobactam should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When Piperacillin and tazobactam is prescribed to treat a bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by Piperacillin and tazobactam or other antibacterial drugs in the future.
Patients should be counseled that Piperacillin and tazobactam can cross the placenta in humans and is excreted in human milk [see Use In Specific Populations].
