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Ceftolozane/Tazobactam: Antibiotic Treatment, Uses & Side Effects
Summary of Key Points
Ceftolozane/tazobactam is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections, including complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI), intra-abdominal infections (cIAI), and certain types of pneumonia, such as hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). This combination therapy works by inhibiting bacterial growth and is often prescribed when other antibiotics are ineffective. Ceftolozane/tazobactam is typically administered intravenously (IV) in a hospital setting. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting any treatment.
Names of Medication
Zerbaxa (Ceftolozane/tazobactam)
The generic name refers to the active ingredients in the medication. In this case, the generic name is ceftolozane/tazobactam, listed in parentheses.
Pharmacologic Category
Beta-lactamase Inhibitor Combination
Cephalosporin (5th Generation)
Ceftolozane/tazobactam Dosing
Ceftolozane/tazobactam is used to treat various bacterial infections in adults. The dosage depends on the type and severity of the infection. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them before making any changes to your dose. If needed, you can schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers.
Ceftolozane/tazobactam for Complicated Urinary Tract Infections (cUTI), including Pyelonephritis
Recommended Dose: 1.5 grams (1 g ceftolozane and 0.5 g tazobactam) every 8 hours for 7 days.
Ceftolozane/tazobactam for Complicated Intra-abdominal Infections (cIAI)
Recommended Dose: 1.5 grams (1 g ceftolozane and 0.5 g tazobactam) every 8 hours for 4 to 14 days, depending on the severity of the infection.
Ceftolozane/tazobactam for Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia (HAP) and Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP)
Recommended Dose: 3 grams (2 g ceftolozane and 1 g tazobactam) every 8 hours for 8 to 14 days.
Ceftolozane/tazobactam for Sepsis and Bacteremia
Recommended Dose: 1.5 to 3 grams every 8 hours, depending on the severity and location of the infection. Treatment duration is typically 7 to 14 days.
Ceftolozane/tazobactam for Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
Recommended Dose: 1.5 grams every 8 hours for 7 to 14 days.
Ceftolozane/tazobactam for Acute Bacterial Sinusitis
Recommended Dose: 1.5 grams every 8 hours for 5 to 10 days.
Ceftolozane/tazobactam for Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis
Recommended Dose: 1.5 grams every 8 hours for 5 to 10 days.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Injection: 1.5 grams (1 g ceftolozane and 0.5 g tazobactam) per vial
Injection: 3 grams (2 g ceftolozane and 1 g tazobactam) per vial
Administration Instructions for Ceftolozane/tazobactam
Ceftolozane/tazobactam is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion, typically in a hospital or clinical setting. The infusion is given over the course of 1 hour. It is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. If you are receiving this medication at home, ensure you fully understand the proper administration and storage procedures. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you encounter any issues with administration.
Ceftolozane/tazobactam Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
Like all medications, ceftolozane/tazobactam may cause side effects. While not everyone will experience them, it’s important to be aware of potential reactions. If you experience severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately or seek emergency care.
Common Side Effects (1-10%): Diarrhea, nausea, headache, fever, and elevated liver enzymes (detected through blood tests).
Less Common Side Effects (0.1-1%): Rash, itching, and allergic reactions.
Rare but Serious Side Effects (<0.1%): Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), seizures, kidney problems, and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (a severe form of diarrhea caused by bacterial overgrowth).
Contraindications for Ceftolozane/tazobactam
A contraindication is a specific condition where a medication should not be used due to potential harm. It’s important to know if any of these apply to you before starting a new medication. Below are the contraindications for ceftolozane/tazobactam:
Allergy to Ceftolozane, Tazobactam, or other Beta-lactam Antibiotics: If you have a known allergy to ceftolozane, tazobactam, or other beta-lactam antibiotics (such as penicillins, cephalosporins, or carbapenems), you should not take this medication. Allergic reactions can range from mild rashes to severe anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.
Severe Renal Impairment: Patients with severe kidney problems may not clear the drug effectively, leading to toxic buildup. In such cases, dosage adjustments or alternative treatments may be necessary.
History of Seizures: Ceftolozane/tazobactam may lower the seizure threshold, especially in patients with a history of seizures or epilepsy. This increases the risk of seizures while on this medication.
Drug-to-Drug Interactions with Ceftolozane/tazobactam
Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, as some drugs may interact with ceftolozane/tazobactam. Below are some medications that may interact:
Probenecid (Benemid): Probenecid can increase ceftolozane/tazobactam levels in your body, potentially leading to increased side effects or toxicity.
Valproic Acid (Depakote): Ceftolozane/tazobactam may reduce the effectiveness of valproic acid, a medication used to control seizures, increasing the risk of seizures in patients relying on valproic acid for seizure control.
Diuretics (Furosemide, Lasix): Diuretics may increase the risk of kidney damage when used with ceftolozane/tazobactam, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney conditions.
Ceftolozane/tazobactam in Pregnancy
Is it safe to take Ceftolozane/tazobactam during pregnancy?
There is limited information available on the use of Ceftolozane/tazobactam during pregnancy. While animal studies have not shown direct harm to the fetus, there are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women. As a result, Ceftolozane/tazobactam should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is important to consult with one of our healthcare providers through telemedicine to discuss your treatment options and ensure the best care for you and your baby.
Ceftolozane/tazobactam while Breastfeeding
Is it safe to take Ceftolozane/tazobactam while breastfeeding?
It is not yet known whether Ceftolozane/tazobactam passes into breast milk. Due to the potential for serious side effects in nursing infants, a decision should be made to either discontinue breastfeeding or stop the medication, depending on how essential the treatment is for the mother. If you are breastfeeding, it is crucial to consult with one of our healthcare providers to determine the safest and most appropriate course of action for both you and your baby.
Estimated Cost of Ceftolozane/tazobactam
The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Ceftolozane/tazobactam without insurance ranges from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on the dosage and the pharmacy. However, using a GoodRx coupon may reduce the cost to approximately $1,200 to $3,500. Prices can vary, so it is recommended to check with your pharmacy and explore available discounts to find the most affordable option.
Possible Alternatives to Ceftolozane/tazobactam
Depending on the condition being treated, alternative medications or lifestyle adjustments may be effective. It is essential to discuss these options with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Below are some possible alternatives for conditions commonly treated with Ceftolozane/tazobactam:
- Complicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Alternatives include antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro) or levofloxacin (Levaquin). Staying well-hydrated and urinating frequently can also help flush out bacteria.
- Complicated Intra-abdominal Infections: Other antibiotics, such as meropenem (Merrem) or piperacillin/tazobactam (Zosyn), may be considered. Maintaining good hygiene and proper wound care can help prevent infections.
- Hospital-acquired Pneumonia (HAP) and Ventilator-associated Pneumonia (VAP): Alternatives include linezolid (Zyvox) or vancomycin (Vancocin). Practicing proper hand hygiene and regularly cleaning ventilator equipment can reduce the risk of pneumonia.
- Pyelonephritis: Other antibiotics, such as ceftriaxone (Rocephin) or amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin), may be used. Drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding holding in urine can help prevent kidney infections.
- Sepsis: Treatment may involve other broad-spectrum antibiotics like vancomycin (Vancocin) or meropenem (Merrem). Early detection and prompt treatment are critical for managing sepsis effectively.
- Bacteremia: Alternatives include ceftriaxone (Rocephin) or daptomycin (Cubicin). Proper wound care and hygiene practices can help prevent bloodstream infections.
- Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: Other antibiotics, such as clindamycin (Cleocin) or doxycycline (Vibramycin), may be used. Keeping wounds clean and dry is essential for preventing infections.
- Acute Bacterial Sinusitis: Alternatives include amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin) or doxycycline (Vibramycin). Using a saline nasal spray and staying hydrated can help alleviate symptoms.
- Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis: Other antibiotics, such as azithromycin (Zithromax) or levofloxacin (Levaquin), may be considered. Quitting smoking and avoiding lung irritants can help manage chronic bronchitis more effectively.
Recent Updates on Ceftolozane/tazobactam Research
Recent studies have focused on the effectiveness of Ceftolozane/tazobactam in treating multi-drug resistant infections, particularly in hospital settings. Ongoing research is exploring its use in combination with other antibiotics to combat resistant bacteria, especially in cases of complicated intra-abdominal infections and hospital-acquired pneumonia. As antibiotic resistance continues to rise, Ceftolozane/tazobactam is being studied for its potential role in addressing these challenges. If you have questions about how this research may impact your treatment, consult with one of our telemedicine providers for the latest updates and personalized advice.
