Aztreonam

Generic Details

Generic Name

Aztreonam

Other Names

  • Azactam

Drug Class

  • Monobactam Antibiotic

Chemical Formula

C13H17N5O8S2

Molecular Weight

435.43 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs)
  • Specifically targets Gram-negative bacteria by binding to PBP-3

Indications

  • Treatment of infections caused by susceptible Gram-negative bacteria

Common Dosage Forms

  • Powder for injection

Typical Dosage

  • 1-2 grams every 6-8 hours

Pediatric Dosage

  • 75-150 mg/kg/day divided every 6-8 hours

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dose adjustment based on renal function

Side Effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Injection site reactions

Contraindications

  • Known allergy to aztreonam or other beta-lactam antibiotics

Pregnancy Category

  • B - Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus

Lactation Safety

  • Compatible with breastfeeding, but caution advised

Drug Interactions

  • No significant drug-drug interactions reported

Overdose Symptoms

  • Potential for neurotoxicity and seizures

Antidote for Overdose

  • Supportive care and monitoring

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature (20-25°C)

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Well absorbed after intramuscular or intravenous administration
  • Distribution: Distributed widely in body tissues and fluids
  • Metabolism: Minimally metabolized in the liver
  • Excretion: Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine

Precautions

  • Use with caution in patients with renal impairment
  • Monitor for signs of superinfections

Warnings

  • May cause Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
  • Potential for allergic reactions including anaphylaxis

Others

  • Reserve for serious infections when other antibiotics are not suitable