Indications
Tazobactam is not used on its own. It is combined with the antibiotic Piperacillin (and in some products with Ceftolozane) to treat serious bacterial infections in hospital, such as:
- Pneumonia, including pneumonia caught in hospital
- Complicated infections inside the abdomen
- Complicated urinary tract and kidney infections
- Serious skin and soft tissue infections
- Fever in people with a very low white blood cell count
How It Works
Many bacteria protect themselves by making enzymes called beta-lactamases, which break down penicillin-type antibiotics. Tazobactam is a beta-lactamase inhibitor: it blocks these enzymes so the partner antibiotic can reach and kill the bacteria. Tazobactam itself has very little antibacterial effect.
Dosage and Administration
Tazobactam comes already combined with its partner antibiotic in a fixed amount. It is given by a doctor or nurse as a slow infusion (drip) into a vein, usually every 6 to 8 hours. The dose and length of treatment depend on the infection, body weight and kidney function, and are given as prescribed.
Interactions
- Probenecid can raise Tazobactam and Piperacillin levels in the blood.
- Methotrexate levels may rise.
- Blood thinners such as Warfarin and Heparin may need closer monitoring.
- Aminoglycosides such as Gentamicin are given separately, not in the same drip.
- Use with Vancomycin may increase the risk of kidney problems.
Contraindications
Do not use if you have had an allergic reaction to Tazobactam, any other beta-lactamase inhibitor, any penicillin or cephalosporin, or a carbapenem.
Side Effects
Side effects are mainly those of the combination: diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, rash, itching, headache, trouble sleeping and soreness where the drip goes in.
Get urgent medical help (tell the doctor or nurse at once) 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
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Fits (seizures) or confusion
- Much less urine than usual
Pregnancy and Lactation
It is used in pregnancy only when the doctor decides the benefit clearly outweighs any risk. Small amounts may pass into breast milk; the doctor will advise whether to continue breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- Tell the doctor about any previous antibiotic allergy.
- Kidney disease needs dose adjustment.
- Products containing it also contain sodium, which matters on a salt-restricted diet.
- Long courses need blood tests for blood counts, kidney function and potassium.
Overdose
Overdose is uncommon because it is given in hospital. Very high levels may cause fits, especially with kidney problems. The medical team treats this, and dialysis can remove the medicine from the blood.
Therapeutic Class
Beta-lactamase inhibitor (used with beta-lactam antibiotics).
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.