Ceftazidime sodium

Ceftazidime Sodium is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic, primarily used in the treatment of bacterial infections. It is a broad-spectrum antibiotic with activity against numerous gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

Chemistry

Ceftazidime Sodium is a semi-synthetic, beta-lactam antibiotic derived from cephalosporin C. It is structurally related to other third-generation cephalosporins such as ceftriaxone and cefotaxime. The sodium salt form of ceftazidime is used to improve its solubility in water.

Mechanism of Action

Ceftazidime Sodium works by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell death. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, inhibiting the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis. This results in a weakened cell wall and causes the bacterial cell to lyse or burst.

Clinical Use

Ceftazidime Sodium is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections, including pneumonia, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and septicemia. It is also used in the treatment of infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium that is often resistant to other antibiotics.

Side Effects

Like all antibiotics, Ceftazidime Sodium can cause side effects. The most common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and rash. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD), hypersensitivity reactions, and seizures.

Resistance

Resistance to Ceftazidime Sodium can occur through several mechanisms, including the production of beta-lactamases, modification of PBPs, and changes in outer membrane permeability. The emergence of antibiotic resistance is a significant concern in the use of all antibiotics, including Ceftazidime Sodium.