Indications
Piperacillin is an injectable antibiotic used in hospital for serious bacterial infections. It is almost always given together with Tazobactam, which protects it from bacteria that would otherwise destroy it. Common uses include:
- Pneumonia, including pneumonia caught in hospital
- Complicated infections inside the abdomen
- Complicated urinary tract and kidney infections
- Serious skin and soft tissue infections
- Infections of the womb and pelvis
- Fever in people with a very low white blood cell count (febrile neutropenia)
How It Works
Piperacillin belongs to the penicillin family. It stops bacteria from building their cell wall, so the bacteria break apart and die. Some bacteria make enzymes called beta-lactamases that can break down penicillins; Tazobactam blocks these enzymes so Piperacillin keeps working.
Dosage and Administration
Piperacillin is given by a doctor or nurse as a slow infusion (drip) into a vein, usually every 6 to 8 hours. The dose and the length of treatment depend on the type of infection, body weight and kidney function, and are given as prescribed. It is not taken by mouth or at home without medical supervision.
Interactions
- Probenecid can raise Piperacillin levels in the blood.
- It may increase the levels and side effects of Methotrexate.
- It can make muscle relaxants such as Vecuronium last longer during surgery.
- Blood thinners such as Heparin and Warfarin may need closer monitoring because of a higher bleeding risk.
- Aminoglycoside antibiotics such as Gentamicin and Amikacin should not be mixed in the same drip; they are given separately.
- Use together with Vancomycin may increase the risk of kidney problems.
Contraindications
Do not use if you have had an allergic reaction to Piperacillin, any other penicillin, a cephalosporin, a carbapenem or a beta-lactamase inhibitor such as Tazobactam.
Side Effects
Common: diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, rash, itching, headache, trouble sleeping, and pain, redness or swelling where the drip goes in. Fungal infections such as thrush can also occur.
Tell the doctor or nurse straight away (get urgent medical help) if you notice:
- Swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash, blistering or peeling skin
- Severe, watery or bloody diarrhoea, during or after treatment
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Fits (seizures), confusion or muscle twitching
- Much less urine than usual
Pregnancy and Lactation
Penicillins are generally considered acceptable in pregnancy, but Piperacillin is used only when the doctor decides it is clearly needed. Small amounts pass into breast milk; the doctor will decide whether breastfeeding can continue. Watch the baby for diarrhoea, rash or thrush.
Precautions and Warnings
- Tell the doctor about any past allergy to antibiotics.
- Kidney disease needs a lower or less frequent dose.
- It contains sodium, which matters for people on a salt-restricted diet or with heart failure.
- Long courses need blood tests for blood counts, kidney function and potassium.
- People with cystic fibrosis may get fever and rash more often.
Overdose
Because it is given in hospital, overdose is uncommon. Very high levels, especially with kidney problems, can cause muscle twitching or fits. The medical team treats this, and the medicine can be removed from the blood by dialysis.
Therapeutic Class
Penicillin antibiotic (extended-spectrum, anti-pseudomonal penicillin).
Storage
Store unopened vials below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Once mixed, hospital staff use it within the time stated in the product leaflet.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.