What is Zerbaxa?
Zerbaxa is a mixed antibiotic that can be used to treat lung infections caused by bacteria in the stomach, gastrointestinal tract, or urinary tract.Zerbaxa is often prescribed as a complement to another antibiotic medication.Zerbaxa can be used for other purposes that are not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Zerbaxa
See a doctor immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of your lips, face, and tongue,
Zerbaxa may cause serious side effects. Contact your physician immediately. If you suffer from:
- Severe stomach pain;
- Diarrhea that is either watery or bloody (even when it happens months after the previous dose);
- Kidney issues: little or no urine output, swelling of your ankles or feet, feeling tired or sluggish,
- Signs of bleeding in the brain, such as sudden numbness or weakness and problems with vision or speech.
Some side effects are more prevalent in older adults.
Common adverse effects of Zerbaxa could include:
- Nausea, diarrhea;
- Headache;
- Fever;
- Kidney problems,
- Atypical liver test results
This isn't a complete list of possible side effects, and other side effects could be present. Consult your physician to seek medical advice on adverse effects. You can report symptoms to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
Amoxicillin, Doxycycline, Ciprofloxacin, Metronidazole, Azithromycin, Clindamycin, and Augmentin
Warnings
Follow all the instructions on the label of your medication and on the label of your package. Be sure to inform your health care providers about your medical issues, allergies, and any medications you take.
Before you take this drug
It is not recommended to take Zerbaxa in the event that you are allergic to ceftolozane or tazobactam or in case you are sensitive to the same antibiotics, like:
- Penicillin antibiotics—amoxicillin, ampicillin, dicloxacillin, oxacillin, penicillin, ticarcillin, Amoxil, Moxatag, Augmentin, Principen, and others;
- Cephalosporin antibiotics—cefdinir, cefprozil, cefuroxime, cephalexin, ceftin, cefzil, Keflex, Omnicef, and others.
Speak to your doctor if you are ever diagnosed with:
- Kidney disease (or kidney disease if you're taking dialysis).
Consult your physician if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.
How to take Zerbaxa?
Follow the instructions on the prescription label and review all medication guides and instruction sheets. Follow the medication exactly as prescribed. This medication is often prescribed for up to 14 days, depending on the nature of the disease the patient is treating.
Zerbaxa is administered by infusion into the veins. The healthcare provider will provide your first dose and instruct you on how to make use of the medicine on your own.Be sure to read and adhere to any instructions for use that are included in your medication. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor to clarify any instructions.
Make an injection only when you are able to administer it. Don't use it when the medication has changed color or contains particles. Contact your pharmacist to inquire about the latest medication.Zerbaxa is mixed with the aid of a liquid (diluent) and then dispersed with another liquid inside bags for IVs. When you administer injections yourself, make sure you know how to combine and preserve the medication.
Take this medication for the entire prescribed duration, even if symptoms improve quickly. Not taking your doses regularly can increase the chances of contracting an illness that is resistant to treatment. Zerbaxa is not able to treat a viral illness like influenza or the commonly occurring cold.The powder that is not mixed with Zerbaxa powder in a fridge. Be sure to keep it safe from light.
Once you have mixed the powder and the first diluting agent, keep the mixture at room temperature for up to 1 hour prior to mixing it in bags for IV use.Medicine contained in an IV bag needs to be utilized within 24 hours of keeping it at room temperature and within seven days when stored in the refrigerator. Get rid of any mixture that hasn't been used in the last 24 hours.Avoid freezing the mix or unmixed medicines.
The contents of each bottle are intended for single usage only. Dispose of it after a single use, even if there's some medicine in the bottle.Make use of the needle and the syringe once only and put them into the puncture proof "sharps" container. Be sure to follow the laws of your state or city regarding how to dispose of the container. Make sure it is out of reach of pets and children.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Contact your doctor for advice in case you missed the dosage of Zerbaxa.
What happens if I overdose?
For medical emergencies, seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Diarrhea can be caused by antibiotics, which could be a sign of a new infection. If you experience diarrhea that is bloody or watery, consult your physician prior to applying anti-diarrhea medications.
Interaction with other drugs
Other medications may interact with Zerbaxa, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Discuss with your doctor all your medications currently in use and any medications you begin or stop taking.
