Aztreonam (Injection)

Introduction:

Aztreonam (az-TREE-oh-nam)

Treats infections caused by bacteria. Belongs to a class of drugs called antibiotics.

Brand Name(s):

Azactam

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to aztreonam.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

  • Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into a muscle or through a needle placed in one of your veins.
  • A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
  • Keep using this medicine for the full treatment time, even if you feel better after the first few doses. Your infection may not clear up if you stop using the medicine too soon.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are using furosemide (Lasix®) or probenecid (Benemid®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease or liver disease. This medicine will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections.
  • Before taking this medicine, let your doctor know if you have had an allergic reaction to penicillin or any medicine to treat an infection (such as cefaclor, cephalexin, imipenem, meropenem, Ceclor®, Keflex®, Merrem® I.V., Primaxin® I.V.).
  • If you have severe diarrhea, ask your doctor before taking any medicine to stop the diarrhea.
  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.
  • Your doctor will need to check your blood or urine at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Blistering, peeling, or red skin rash.
  • Bloody or black, tarry stools.
  • Change in how much or how often you urinate.
  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, trouble with breathing, or wheezing.
  • Dark-colored urine or pale stools.
  • Diarrhea that may contain blood.
  • Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
  • Lightheadedness or fainting.
  • Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or pain in your upper stomach.
  • Numbness, tingling, pain, burning, weakness, or loss of feeling anywhere in your body.
  • Seizures.
  • Swelling of the face, throat, or lips.
  • Swelling, pain, or redness near where the needle is placed.
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.
  • Vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds.
  • Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest.
  • Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Headache.
  • Mild diarrhea, constipation, or stomach upset.
  • Muscle pain.
  • Pain where the shot was given.
  • Sores or white patches in your mouth or throat.
  • Stuffy or runny nose.
  • Trouble sleeping.
  • Vaginal itching or discharge.
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