About cefazolin
First-generation cephalosporin antibiotic
Used for
- Treats susceptible bacterial infections, including skin, bone, urinary, and respiratory infections
- Prevents infection during certain surgeries
Usual adult dose
Treatment: commonly 1–2 g IV every 8 hours; dose depends on infection and kidney function. Surgical prevention: usually 1–2 g before surgery.
Usual dose in children
Commonly 25–50 mg/kg/day IV in divided doses every 6–8 hours; severe infections may need higher doses, guided by age and kidney function.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
- Injection-site pain or inflammation
- Rash or itching
- Rarely, severe allergic reaction or antibiotic-associated colitis
Important warnings
- Avoid with serious allergy to cefazolin or other cephalosporins; use caution with severe penicillin allergy.
- Kidney impairment may require dose adjustment.
- Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, or severe skin reactions.
- Use only for bacterial infections; unnecessary use promotes antibiotic resistance.
Pregnancy
Generally considered usable when clinically needed; a healthcare professional should weigh benefits and risks.
Breastfeeding
Usually compatible; monitor the infant for diarrhea, thrush, or rash.
Interactions
- Probenecid can increase cefazolin levels.
- Warfarin may have increased effects; monitoring may be needed.
- Other medicines that can harm the kidneys may increase kidney-related risks.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.