Antibiotic (Cephalosporin + Beta-lactamase inhibitor combination)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Ceftazidime/Avibactam (sold as Zavicefta in Nigeria) is a powerful combination antibiotic given through a drip (IV infusion) in the hospital. Ceftazidime kills bacteria, while Avibactam helps it work against stubborn bacteria that have become resistant to many other antibiotics.
Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins and preventing peptidoglycan cross-linking, while avibactam irreversibly inhibits bacterial beta-lactamases, preventing antibiotic degradation and restoring ceftazidime activity against resistant organisms.
Serious hospital infections, complicated urinary tract infections (UTI), complicated stomach and abdominal infections, hospital-acquired pneumonia (lung infection), infections caused by bacteria that other antibiotics cannot treat
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Since this drug is given in the hospital on a strict schedule, a missed dose is unlikely. However, if a dose is missed, the hospital team should give it as soon as possible and then continue the regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Avoid using with probenecid (a gout medicine) as it can increase ceftazidime levels in the blood. Do not mix with chloramphenicol (another antibiotic sometimes used in Nigeria) as they may work against each other. Always tell your doctor about every medicine you are taking, including herbal remedies.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Ceftazidime with your other drugs?
This drug should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if your doctor decides the benefit clearly outweighs the risk. Always consult your doctor before use.
Store the unopened powder below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity, which is important in Nigeria's hot climate. Once the powder is mixed for use, it should be used quickly or stored as directed by the pharmacist. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.