Ceftriaxone is the active ingredient of Arrow Ceftriaxone, Austell-Ceftriaxone, CPL Alliance Ceftriaxone, Oframax, Pharmacare-Ceftriaxone, Rocephin, Rociject, Sabax Ceftriaxone and Triaxiphin.

General information

Ceftriaxone is a broad-spectrum antibiotic effective in treating a variety of bacterial infections. It is frequently prescribed to treat infections of the renal, urinary, gastro-intestinal and respiratory tract, as well as meningitis, sepsis, gonorrhoea and certain infections of the bone, joints, skin, soft tissue and wounds caused by organisms that are susceptible to ceftriaxone.

It is important to note that this medication is only effective against bacterial infections - if your infection is the result of a viral or fungal infection, it will be ineffective.

Persons who are allergic to penicillin should take ceftriaxone with caution. Although it is not a penicillin, cross-sensitivity - meaning that you may also be allergic to this drug - may occur.

How does Ceftriaxone work?

Ceftriaxone weakens the bacterial cell wall and allows water to enter the cell, causing cells to burst.

Fast facts

Drug schedule: schedule 4

Available as: ceftriaxone is only available as injection

What does it do? This medication has an antibiotic action

Overdose risk: low

Dependence risk: low

Is ceftriaxone available as a generic? yes

Is ceftriaxone available on prescription only? yes

Special precautions

Consult your doctor before using this drug if:

• you have a kidney or liver disease
• you are allergic to other cephalosporin antibiotics or penicillin
• you have pseudomembrane colitis
• you are taking other medication

Pregnancy: avoid. It is unknown how this medication may affect your baby. Consult your doctor before using this drug, or if you are planning to fall pregnant.

Breastfeeding: avoid. This medication is passed through breast milk and may affect your baby adversely. Consult your doctor before use.

Porphyria: avoid. This medication may cause serious adverse effects. Consult your doctor before use.

Infants and children: This medication should only be used as directed by your paediatrician.

The elderly: caution is advised in the elderly as adverse effects may be more severe.

Possible side effects

Interactions

Drug interactions

Recommended dosage

Adults: 1 - 2g daily with a maximum dose of 4g

Children: only as prescribed by a paediatrician.

This material is not intended to substitute medical advice, but is for informational purposes only. Please consult a physician for specific treatment and recommendations.