Ceftazidime + Avibactam

Generic Details

Generic Name

Ceftazidime-Avibactam

Other Names

  • Ceftazidime/Avibactam
  • Avycaz

Drug Class

  • Combination of a cephalosporin antibiotic and a beta-lactamase inhibitor

Chemical Formula

C22H30N12O8S2

Molecular Weight

716.677 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Ceftazidime inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins.
  • Avibactam inhibits beta-lactamases, enzymes that can inactivate beta-lactam antibiotics.

Indications

  • Complicated intra-abdominal infections
  • Complicated urinary tract infections
  • Hospital-acquired bacterial pneumonia
  • Ventilator-associated bacterial pneumonia

Common Dosage Forms

  • Powder for solution for injection or infusion

Typical Dosage

  • 2.5 grams intravenously every 8 hours

Pediatric Dosage

  • Dosage varies based on weight and age, consult a pediatrician

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on kidney function

Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Rash
  • Elevations in liver enzymes

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or beta-lactamase inhibitors

Pregnancy Category

  • Category B - Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.

Lactation Safety

  • Use with caution; may pass into breast milk at low levels

Drug Interactions

  • Probenecid may increase levels of ceftazidime
  • Concomitant use with nephrotoxic drugs may increase risk of kidney damage

Overdose Symptoms

  • Seizures
  • Encephalopathy

Antidote for Overdose

  • Supportive care and monitoring

Storage Conditions

  • Store powder for solution at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C)

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Ceftazidime: Not absorbed orally; Avibactam: Well absorbed after oral administration
  • Distribution: Both drugs distribute well into body tissues
  • Metabolism: Ceftazidime: Minor metabolism in the liver; Avibactam: Minimal metabolism
  • Excretion: Primarily renal for both drugs

Precautions

  • Renal impairment may require dosage adjustments
  • Monitor for signs of anaphylaxis during administration

Warnings

  • Risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
  • Increased mortality in patients with carbapenem-resistant bacteria