%1$s
Cefazolin - Uses - Dosages - Side Effects - Precautions

Cefazolin: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Cefazolin?

Cefazolin is a cephalosporin antibiotic medicine used to cure various infections and diseases caused by bacterias. It is also used before and in between some surgeries to prevent any infections and bacterial diseases. It works by hindering the growth of bacteria and manipulating its structural composition. Cefazolin is a safe drug and shows no effects on the action of any other medication. It is one of the most trusted drugs by doctors for infections caused by protozoa and bacteria.

What are the uses of Cefazolin?

Cefazolin is used for the cure of infections by bacteria and protozoa. These bacterial infections may include joint, skin, bone, heart valve, genital, blood, respiratory tract, and urinary tract conditions. Before, during, and even after surgery, Cefazolin is a trusted drug to ensure no bacterial residue remains in the body.

It belongs to the family of cephalosporin drugs. Cefazolin works by hindering the bacteria and altering its composition such that its growth stops.

Book Doctor Appointment
Book Online Doctor Appointment
Search Specialty Doctor
Health Packages

What are the side effects of Cefazolin?

The most usual side effects of Cefazolin include the following:

  • Diarrhea and vomiting.
  • Oral fungal infection.
  • Nausea
  • Stomach ache.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Itching.
  • Skin rash.
  • Fever.

In case you see any sign or feel any other discomfort, refer to your doctor immediately. In some cases, it may cause diarrhea; thus, necessary precautions should be taken. Some people tend to be more prone to these side effects. In that case, you must be aware of your medical history to keep the doctors informed.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Cefazolin

1. Can you drink alcohol while taking Cefazolin?

Cefazolin does not in any way interfere with alcohol or any other such drugs. However, alcohol may interfere with your infection. There are very similar side effects of both alcohol and Cefazolin. Drinking while on Cefazolin might increase these effects. Hence, it is advised not to consume alcohol till on Cefazolin.

2. Does Cefazolin cross the blood-brain barrier?

While the first and second-gen of Cefazolin do not Cross the blood-brain barrier, the third-gen of Cefazolin agents can have a high concentration in cerebrospinal fluid. Since the third generation Cefazolin crosses the blood-brain barrier. That is why the third-gen has a higher activity rate against bacteria and other pathogens.

3. How to calculate Cefazolin dose?

Moderate-to-severe infections
0.5-1 g IV every 6-8hr
Mild infections with a gram-positive bacterial infection
250-500 mg IV every 8hr
Mild-to-moderate infections
1-2 g IV every 8hr for 4-7 days.
Urinary tract infection
1 g IV every 12 hr.

4. Is Cefazolin a penicillin?

Cefazolin is an excellent alternative to penicillin for patients who are reactive to penicillin. Cefazolin is a cephalosporin antibiotic medicine that is used to treat general infections caused by protozoa and bacteria. Although it is not penicillin, it is a good substitute for patients' reactions. However, Cefazolin may have its side effects.

5. Is Cefazolin ototoxic?

Cefazolin is a cause of ototoxicity to a lesser extent, but if used in excess, it may cause permanent damage to the ears. In some severe infections, high doses of Cefazolin are given, which may eventually cause permanent ear damage and hearing loss. The earliest sign of ototoxicity is tinnitus, which is ringing in the ears.

6. Why give Cefazolin slowly?

Cefazolin is administered by an intravenous dose slowly for three to five minutes. Bolus injection with approximately 5ml sterile water injection is given slowly over an IV dose. Intermittent or continuous infusion can also be preferred in 50 to 100 ml in 5% Dextrose Injection.

7. What kind of antibiotic is Cefazolin?

Cefazolin injection is in a category of drugs called cephalosporin antibiotics. It works by hindering and altering bacteria structurally. This drug acts by killing the bacteria present in the body; thus, it is bacteriostatic. Cephalosporins are the most trusted antibiotics to treat bacterial infections; therefore, Cefazolin has a high efficacy rate.

8. Is Cefazolin and Keflex the same?

Keflex (cephalexin) effectively cures many infections caused by bacteria and protozoa and is a generic drug. Cefazolin is available as a generic drug. It is suitable to treat many types of bacterial infections. Keflex can be found in tablets, capsules, and suspensions. The medication should be taken as per the prescription at regular intervals.

9. Is Cefazolin a strong antibiotic?

Cefazolin is used to treat infections caused by protozoa and bacteria. Depending upon the volume it is being used in, it can be considered a strong or mild antibiotic. High dosage can lead to some significant side effects. Patients should be aware that the chances for allergic reactions are higher.

10. How long does Cefazolin stay in your system?

Cefazolin drug is passed out unaltered through the urine. After 6 hours of taking the medication, 60% of the drug content would pass out in the urine, and in the next 24 hours, 70% to 80% would be removed from the body.

 

    Contact

    • Yes Same as WhatsApp number

    • By clicking on Send, you accept to receive communication from Yashoda Hospitals on email, SMS, call and Whatsapp.

      Contact

      • Yes Same as WhatsApp number

      • By clicking on Send, you accept to receive communication from Yashoda Hospitals on email, SMS, call and Whatsapp.

      Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.