Ceftriaxone Sodium

Generic Details

Generic Name

Ceftriaxone Sodium

Other Names

  • Rocephin

Drug Class

  • Third-generation cephalosporin

Chemical Formula

C18H16N8Na2O7S3

Molecular Weight

661.59 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs)

Indications

  • Bacterial infections such as meningitis, pneumonia, gonorrhea, peritonitis, septicaemia, and others

Common Dosage Forms

  • Powder for injection
  • Solution for injection
  • Powder for oral suspension

Typical Dosage

  • 1-2 grams once daily or divided into two doses every 12 hours

Pediatric Dosage

  • Dosing based on weight and severity of infection

Geriatric Dosage

  • May require dosage adjustment based on renal function

Side Effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Rash
  • Injection site reactions
  • Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD)

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to cephalosporins

Pregnancy Category

  • Category B - considered safe for use during pregnancy

Lactation Safety

  • Safe to use while breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

  • Probenecid may increase ceftriaxone levels in the body

Overdose Symptoms

  • Seizures
  • Encephalopathy

Antidote for Overdose

  • There is no specific antidote, manage symptoms and provide supportive care

Storage Conditions

  • Store powder for injection between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
  • Solution for injection can be stored below 25°C (77°F)

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Not well absorbed orally, administered parenterally
  • Distribution: Wide distribution in tissues and fluids
  • Metabolism: No significant metabolism
  • Excretion: Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine

Precautions

  • Caution in patients with renal impairment
  • Monitor for signs of allergic reactions

Warnings

  • May cause Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD)