Rocephin, Triaxone, Ceftol, Ceftrix
Generic Name
ceftrix
Manufacturer
Roche, Square Pharmaceuticals, Renata Limited, Beximco Pharmaceuticals
Country
Switzerland (original developer), Bangladesh (local manufacturers)
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Ceftrix (Ceftriaxone) is a broad-spectrum, third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including severe or hospital-acquired infections. It is administered via intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) injection.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typical dose: 1-2 g administered once daily (every 24 hours) via IV or IM. Max dose: 4 g/day.
Elderly
No dosage adjustment needed unless severe renal or hepatic impairment is present.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment needed for mild to moderate impairment. For severe impairment (creatinine clearance < 10 mL/min), max dose 2 g/day. Monitor drug levels.
How to Take
Administered via slow intravenous (IV) infusion (over 30 minutes) or deep intramuscular (IM) injection. IM injection should be given into a large muscle mass and can be painful.
Mechanism of Action
Ceftrix works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located in the bacterial cell wall, which prevents the cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains, leading to cell lysis and bacterial death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 2-3 hours for therapeutic effect.
Excretion
Approximately 50-60% excreted unchanged in urine via glomerular filtration, and 40-50% excreted unchanged in bile/feces.
Half life
Approximately 6-9 hours (longer in neonates, elderly, and those with renal/hepatic impairment).
Absorption
Rapidly and completely absorbed following intramuscular (IM) injection. 100% bioavailability for IV administration.
Metabolism
Minimal metabolism in the liver; primarily converted to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Ceftrix or any other cephalosporin or penicillin antibiotics.
- Neonates (especially premature) with hyperbilirubinemia, due to the risk of bilirubin encephalopathy.
- Neonates receiving IV calcium-containing solutions or products, due to the risk of ceftriaxone-calcium precipitation.
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
May decrease renal clearance of Ceftriaxone, increasing its blood levels.
Aminoglycosides
Synergistic effect against some Gram-negative bacteria, but do not mix in the same syringe/infusion bag due to physical incompatibility.
Calcium-containing solutions
Concomitant use with IV calcium-containing solutions is contraindicated in neonates due to precipitation risk. Avoid within 48 hours for other age groups if possible.
Loop diuretics (e.g., Furosemide)
May increase nephrotoxicity, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
Oral anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May increase the anticoagulant effect, requiring closer monitoring of INR and dose adjustment.
Storage
Store intact vials at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F), protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended. Ceftriaxone is not significantly removed by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women are lacking. Use only if clearly needed. Ceftrix is excreted in breast milk in low concentrations; use with caution in breastfeeding mothers.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Ceftrix or any other cephalosporin or penicillin antibiotics.
- Neonates (especially premature) with hyperbilirubinemia, due to the risk of bilirubin encephalopathy.
- Neonates receiving IV calcium-containing solutions or products, due to the risk of ceftriaxone-calcium precipitation.
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
May decrease renal clearance of Ceftriaxone, increasing its blood levels.
Aminoglycosides
Synergistic effect against some Gram-negative bacteria, but do not mix in the same syringe/infusion bag due to physical incompatibility.
Calcium-containing solutions
Concomitant use with IV calcium-containing solutions is contraindicated in neonates due to precipitation risk. Avoid within 48 hours for other age groups if possible.
Loop diuretics (e.g., Furosemide)
May increase nephrotoxicity, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
Oral anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May increase the anticoagulant effect, requiring closer monitoring of INR and dose adjustment.
Storage
Store intact vials at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F), protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended. Ceftriaxone is not significantly removed by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women are lacking. Use only if clearly needed. Ceftrix is excreted in breast milk in low concentrations; use with caution in breastfeeding mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date, when stored properly. Reconstituted solution has a shorter shelf life (e.g., 6 hours at room temperature, 24 hours in refrigerator).
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
FDA Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Ceftriaxone has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in treating a wide range of bacterial infections across various patient populations since its introduction.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Liver function tests (LFTs) if prolonged treatment
- Renal function tests (RFTs) if renal impairment is suspected
- Coagulation parameters (e.g., PT/INR) if concomitant anticoagulants are used
Doctor Notes
- Confirm penicillin allergy status before administration; cross-reactivity with cephalosporins is possible, though less common with third-generation agents.
- Consider alternative antibiotics in neonates, especially those with hyperbilirubinemia or receiving calcium.
- Monitor for signs of C. difficile infection if severe diarrhea develops.
- Adjust dosage in patients with severe hepatic and renal dysfunction simultaneously.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel better.
- Do not share this medicine with others.
- Inform your doctor about any past allergic reactions to antibiotics.
- Report any unusual side effects, especially severe diarrhea, to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, administer it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Ceftrix may cause dizziness or lightheadedness in some individuals. If you experience these symptoms, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hydration throughout the treatment period.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during antibiotic treatment, though direct interaction is minimal, it can exacerbate side effects.
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Global Brand Names
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