How do you take Ceftazidime (Ceftazidime Pentahydrate)?

This drug is given as an injection into a vein (IV) or muscle (IM) by a doctor or nurse, so do not try to inject yourself at home. The usual adult dose is 1g to 2g every 8 to 12 hours depending on how serious the infection is. Your doctor will decide the exact dose and how long you need it, usually 7 to 14 days.

What are the side effects of Ceftazidime (Ceftazidime Pentahydrate)?

Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site, diarrhoea or loose stool, nausea or vomiting, rash or itching on the skin

Who should not take Ceftazidime (Ceftazidime Pentahydrate)?

People who are allergic to ceftazidime, other cephalosporin antibiotics, or penicillin-type drugs should not take this medication. People with severe kidney problems need a reduced dose and close monitoring. Always inform your doctor of any drug allergies before receiving this injection.

Prescription

Antibiotic (Third-generation Cephalosporin)

Ceftazidime

Q: What is Ceftazidime (Ceftazidime Pentahydrate) used for?

Severe typhoid, serious chest infections (pneumonia), urinary tract infections (UTI), blood infections (sepsis), bone infections, meningitis (brain infection), severe skin infections, hospital-acquired infections

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Ceftazidime is a strong antibiotic that works by killing bacteria responsible for serious infections in your body. It belongs to the cephalosporin family of antibiotics and is given as an injection because it works faster and stronger that way.

How it works

Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins and preventing peptidoglycan cross-linking, resulting in bactericidal activity against gram-negative organisms, gram-positive cocci, and anaerobes commonly associated with severe infections.

What is it used for?

Severe typhoidserious chest infections (pneumonia)urinary tract infections (UTI)blood infections (sepsis)bone infectionsmeningitis (brain infection)severe skin infectionshospital-acquired infections

Browse by condition

Typhoid Bacterial Infections Skin Infections Throat & Chest Infections Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)Meningitis Sepsis & Severe Infections

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

Always complete the full course of this antibiotic even if you start feeling better, as stopping early can make the infection come back stronger and harder to treat. Make sure you receive this injection only at a hospital, clinic, or registered pharmacy, never from roadside sellers or unregistered chemists. Do not share your prescription with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms.

Common Side Effects

Pain
redness or swelling at the injection site
diarrhoea or loose stool
nausea or vomiting
rash or itching on the skin

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction: swelling of face
throat
difficulty breathing
or widespread rash (seek emergency help immediately). Watery or bloody diarrhoea that won't stop (this could be a dangerous gut infection called C. difficile). Yellowing of the eyes or skin
or unusual bleeding or bruising
so go to the hospital right away.

Drug Interactions

Aminoglycoside antibiotics (like gentamicin): when used together, your doctor needs to monitor your kidneys closely. Blood thinners like warfarin: ceftazidime may increase bleeding risk, so your doctor should check your blood clotting. Chloramphenicol: may reduce how well ceftazidime works and should generally not be combined.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Ceftazidime should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if your doctor decides the benefit outweighs the risk, so always consult your doctor before use.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to ceftazidime
other cephalosporin antibiotics
or penicillin-type drugs should not take this medication. People with severe kidney problems need a reduced dose and close monitoring. Always inform your doctor of any drug allergies before receiving this injection.

How to Store

Store the powder (before mixing) in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and humidity, which is important in Nigeria's hot climate. Once mixed with water for injection, use it within the time your pharmacist specifies (usually within 24 hours if refrigerated). Always keep out of reach of children.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.