What is Fortaz?
Ceftazidime, a cephalosporin, is used in the treatment of many types of bacterial infections. Ceftazidime can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Fortaz
If you experience symptoms of an allergic response (hives or itching, lightheadedness, difficulty breathing, swelling on your face or in your throat), or severe skin reactions such as a fever, sore neck, skin pain or burning, or a red or purple rash with blistering or peeling,
Fortaz may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Severe stomach pain or diarrhea that is bloody or watery (even months after the last dose);
- If you notice a pale or yellowed complexion, dark urine, a fever, or weakness, then it is important to consult your doctor.
- Confusion, hallucinations, and severe weakness
- Involuntary muscular movement
- Seizure (blackout or convulsions);
- A cold feeling at your fingertips, skin discoloration, or other changes
Side effects of Fortaz include:
- Allergic reaction
- Numbness, tingling, burning pain;
- Headache, dizziness;
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain;
- Signs of a fungus infection: white patches or sores in the mouth or throat; vaginal itching and discharge.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice regarding potential side effects, always contact your physician first. Alternatively, call the FDA directly at 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report side effects.
Warnings
Ceftazidime may cause severe or even life-threatening reactions. If you are allergic to penicillin or any antibiotic, tell your doctor.
Before you take this drug
Ceftazidime may cause severe or even life-threatening reactions.
- Cefadroxil is also known as cefoxitin (cefdinir), cefuroxime (cefuroxime), Keflex, Omnicef, and other names.
- Avibactam (also known as relebactam), sulbactam (also known as tazobactam), vaborbactam, and others
- Amoxil (Augmentin or Moxatag), Ampicillin, Diloxacillin, Penicillin, and other antibiotics
Please notify your doctor of the following:
- An allergy to penicillin (or any other drug)
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Bleeding problems
- If you are malnourished.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing.
How to take Fortaz?
Please read and heed all instructions or guides included with your medication, including following all label directions. Ceftazidime may be administered directly into a vein for injection. If you need any guidance regarding how to inject this medication, consult your pharmacist or physician. Prepare an injection only when it's time to administer it. If the color has changed or there are particles present, contact your pharmacist immediately. Don't reuse a syringe or needle; store them safely in a puncture-proof "sharps container," disposing of them according to local or state laws and keeping away from children and pets. Ceftazidime may interfere with certain medical tests; therefore, you should inform any physician who treats you that you use ceftazidime. Continue using ceftazidime even if your symptoms show improvement quickly; skipping doses could make your infection resistant to treatment and cause more harm than good. Ceftazidime does not treat viral infections like flu or colds.
Use the IV bag within three days. Store it in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Before using, remove the bag from the fridge and allow it to reach room temperature. Once the medicine reaches room temperature, it must be taken within 12 hours.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If it is almost time for your next dose, forgo taking any missed ones. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once. If you receive this medication at a clinic, you should call your doctor immediately if you do not show up for the appointment.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention. Overdose symptoms may include muscle stiffness, uncontrollable muscle movements, seizures or even coma.
What should be avoided?
Antibiotics can cause diarrhea. If you experience diarrhea that is bloody or watery, tell your doctor.
Interaction with other drug
Ceftazidime can be affected by other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the other medications you take.
