About piperacilli n
Extended-spectrum penicillin and beta-lactamase inhibitor
Used for
- Treats serious bacterial infections, including pneumonia and abdominal infections
- Treats skin, urinary-tract, and bloodstream infections
- Used for susceptible bacteria, including some Pseudomonas infections
Usual adult dose
Usual adult dose is 3.375 g intravenously every 6 hours; dose may vary by infection and kidney function.
Usual dose in children
For children aged 2 months or older, dosing is weight-based and depends on infection and kidney function; specialist guidance is used.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
- Rash or allergic reactions
- Low blood counts or changes in liver tests
- Kidney problems or seizures, especially with high doses or kidney impairment
Important warnings
- Serious penicillin or cephalosporin allergy may cause a severe reaction
- Dose adjustment may be needed with kidney impairment
- Antibiotic-associated severe diarrhea can occur during or after treatment
- Use only for bacterial infections; unnecessary use promotes resistance
Pregnancy
May be used when clinically needed; available human pregnancy data are limited.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter breast milk; monitor the infant for diarrhea, thrush, or rash.
Interactions
- Warfarin and other anticoagulants: bleeding risk or altered clotting tests
- Methotrexate: may increase methotrexate exposure
- Vancomycin: increased risk of kidney injury
- Probenecid: may increase piperacillin levels
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.