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Avycaz

Generic name: avibactam and ceftazidime [AV-i-BAK-tam-and-sef-TAZ-i-deem]
Drug class: cephalosporins and beta-lactamase inhibitors

What is Avycaz?

Avycaz, a combination anti-HIM0_ medication, is prescribed to adults as well as children up to 3 months of age for complicated stomach, kidney, and bladder infections.Avycaz can only be used in adults for the treatment of pneumonitis that has occurred during or soon after hospitalisation.Avycaz can be used in other ways not mentioned in the medication guide.

Side effects of Avycaz

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergy reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling in your lips, face, throat, or tongue.

Avycaz may cause serious side effects. If you experience:

  • Severe abdominal pain, diarrhoea, watery or bleeding;
  • A seizure (convulsions);
  • Overactive reflexes, rigid muscles;
  • Confusion, hallucinations,
  • A change in mentality.

Avycaz can cause the following side effects:

  • Nausea, vomiting;
  • Diarrhoea;
  • There may be bruising at the site where the iv is inserted.

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contact the FDA by dialing their toll-free line: 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.

Warning

Please read all the instructions on the label or package of your medication. Inform your doctors about your allergies and medical conditions. Also, tell them which medicines you are using.

Before you take this drug

Avycaz should not be used if you have an allergy to avibactam, ceftazidime, or a cephalosporin such as:

  • Cefaclor
  • Cefadroxil (Duricef);
  • Cefazolin (Ancef);
  • Cefdinir (Omnicef);
  • Cefditoren (Spectracef);
  • Cefprozil (Cefzil);
  • Ceftibuten (Cedax);
  • Cefuroxime (Ceftin);
  • Cephradine (Velosef);
  • Cephalexin; Keflex

If you've ever:

  • A stomach or intestinal disease such as colitis.
  • Kidney disease
  • An allergy to penicillin (including amoxicillin and ampicillin) is a common condition.

Inform your doctor of any pregnancy or breastfeeding.

How to take Avycaz?

Avycaz can be infused into the vein. Your healthcare provider may give you your first dose and teach you to use it properly.The infusion may take up to 2 hours. This medicine may be needed for as long as 14 days. Do not forget to follow your doctor's instructions.Please read and follow all instructions for use that come with your medication. If you don't understand the instructions, ask your pharmacist or doctor.Avycaz should be mixed in an IV bag with liquid. If you are using the injections yourself, make sure that you know how to mix and store them.Store the IV bag in room-temperature storage after mixing and use within 12 hours.The IV bag can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Don't freeze. Once you remove the IV bag from the fridge, it must be used within 12 hours.Avycaz should not be used if the colour has changed or if there are particles present. For new medications, call your pharmacist. It should be clear or light yellow.Even if you feel better quickly, continue to take this medication for as long as prescribed. You can get infections resistant to medications if you skip doses. Avycaz does not treat viral infections such as flu and common cough.If your symptoms don't improve or worsen, call your doctor.Tell your doctor that you are using Avycaz. Avycaz should be disclosed to any physician who is treating you.Avycaz should be stored at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and sunlight. The vials (bottles) are only for one-time use. After one use, throw it out, even if the medicine is still inside.Only use a needle or syringe once, and place it in the "sharps container" to prevent punctures. Be sure to follow local or state laws on how you should dispose of the container. Pets and children should never access it directly.

What happens if I miss the dose?

If you missed a dose, call your doctor to get instructions.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.

Avoid this

It is possible that antibiotics can lead to diarrhea. This could be an indication of a fresh infection. Call your doctor if you experience diarrhoea that's watery or bleeding.

Interaction with other drug

Avycaz may interact with other drugs, such as prescription or over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you stop or start using.