The medicine is sometimes also used to prevent infections before, during, or after surgery.
Cefazolin is in a class of drugs known as cephalosporin antibiotics. It's administered as an injection or as an intravenous (IV) drip.
The drug can target bacteria that cause infections of the lung, skin, bone, joint, stomach, blood, heart, valve, and urinary tract.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved cefazolin in 1973. The drug is currently manufactured by several companies.
Cefazolin Warnings
Before taking cefazolin, tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:- Kidney, liver, or gastrointestinal disease (such as ulcerative colitis)
- An allergy to penicillin or any other drugs
- Bleeding problems
- Diabetes
Cefazolin only treats bacterial infections and won't work for viral infections such as the common cold.
When receiving cefazolin in your vein or under your skin, you may be at risk for a catheter-related infection.
Tell your health care provider if you experience any of the following symptoms near your catheter:
- Tenderness
- Pain
- Swelling
- Warmth
- Redness
- Drainage
- Irritation
- Fever
In rare cases, cefazolin may cause a severe intestinal condition known as Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent or severe diarrhea
- Severe stomach pain or cramping
- Blood or mucus in your stool
Long-term use of cefazolin may also cause a second infection. Tell your doctor if you experience any signs of another infection during your treatment.
Elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects of cefazolin. This medicine should be used with caution in older adults.
Pregnancy and Cefazolin
Cefazolin is not likely to harm an unborn baby.Tell your doctor if you're pregnant or plan to become pregnant before taking this medicine.
The drug is found in breast milk. Talk to your doctor before taking this medicine if you're breastfeeding a baby.
Cefazolin Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Cefazolin
Tell your doctor if any of the following side effects become severe or don't go away:- Stomach pain or upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Headache
Serious Side Effects of Cefazolin
Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of the symptoms listed in the Warning section or any of the following serious side effects:- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Skin rash, itching, or hives
- Breathing difficulties
- Seizures
- Sore throat or mouth
- Dark-colored urine
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
Cefazolin Interactions
- Anticoagulants such as Coumadin (warfarin) or heparin
- Benemid (probenecid)
- Other antibiotics
- Vitamins
Cefazolin Dosage
Cefazolin is either injected into a large muscle (such as the buttock or hip) or added to an intravenous fluid drip.Your dosage will be based on your condition and response to treatment.
This medicine may be administered by a doctor or nurse in a clinical setting, or you may be given instructions on how to inject yourself at home.
Use this medicine exactly as your doctor recommends. Don't take more or less than is prescribed.
Don't use cefazolin if it contains particles, is cloudy, or is discolored.
Make sure you take this medicine for the entire length of time your doctors suggests. Stopping cefazolin too soon may cause your infection to come back.
Try to take cefazolin at evenly spaced intervals, so the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level.
Cefazolin Overdose
If you suspect an overdose, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.You can get in touch with a poison control center at 800-222-1222.
Missed Dose of Cefazolin
If you miss a dose of cefazolin, take it as soon as you can.However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule.
Don't take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
