Ceftriaxone (Injection)

Introduction:

Ceftriaxone (sef-trye-AX-one)

Treats infections caused by certain types of bacteria. This medicine is a cephalosporin antibiotic.

Brand Name(s):

Rocephin, Amerinet Choice Ceftriaxone

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any type of cephalosporin antibiotic (such as cephalexin, Ceftin®, Cefzil®, Ceclor®, or Keflex®. This medicine should not be given to newborn babies or infants less than 28 days of age.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

  • Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into one of your muscles or through a needle placed in one of your veins.
  • A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. It may also be given by a home healthcare nurse.
  • This medicine is not for long-term use.

If a dose is missed:

  • This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature, away from heat and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine, containers, and other supplies. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, anemia, gallbladder disease, pancreas problems, or a history of stomach or bowel disease, such as colitis. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to penicillin.
  • If you have severe diarrhea, ask your doctor before taking any medicine to stop the diarrhea..
  • Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Dark-colored urine or pale stools.
  • Diarrhea that may contain blood.
  • Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
  • Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or pain in your upper stomach.
  • Severe diarrhea or vomiting.
  • Shortness of breath, tiredness, uneven heartbeat, and yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.
  • Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Change or loss of taste.
  • Dizziness or headache.
  • Mild rash or itching skin.
  • Pain, redness, or swelling where the shot is given.
  • Vaginal itching or discharge.
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