indication

For the treatment of infections due to susceptible strains of microorganisms.

pharmacology

Ceftizoxime is highly resistant to a broad spectrum of beta-lactamases and is active against a wide range of both aerobic and anaerobic gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. It has few side effects and is reported to be safe and effective in aged patients and in patients with hematologic disorders.

mechanism of action

Ceftizoxime is an aminothiazolyl cephalosporin with an extended spectrum of activity against many gram-negative, nosocomially acquired pathogens. It has excellent beta-lactamase stability, with good in vitro activity against Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Ceftizoxime, like the penicillins, is a beta-lactam antibiotic. By binding to specific penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, it inhibits the third and last stage of bacterial cell wall synthesis. Cell lysis is then mediated by bacterial cell wall autolytic enzymes such as autolysins; it is possible that ceftizoxime interferes with an autolysin inhibitor.

biotransformation

Ceftizoxime is not metabolized, and is excreted virtually unchanged by the kidneys in 24 hours.

route of elimination

Ceftizoxime is not metabolized, and is excreted virtually unchanged by the kidneys in 24 hours.

drug interactions

Amikacin: Increased risk of nephrotoxicity

Gentamicin: Increased risk of nephrotoxicity

Netilmicin: Increased risk of nephrotoxicity

Probenecid: Probenecid may increase the serum level of ceftizoxime.

Tobramycin: Increased risk of nephrotoxicity