1. Can you drink alcohol while taking Cefazolin?
Cefazolin does not in any way interfere with alcohol or any other such drugs. However, alcohol may interfere with your infection. There are very similar side effects of both alcohol and Cefazolin. Drinking while on Cefazolin might increase these effects. Hence, it is advised not to consume alcohol till on Cefazolin.
2. Does Cefazolin cross the blood-brain barrier?
While the first and second-gen of Cefazolin do not Cross the blood-brain barrier, the third-gen of Cefazolin agents can have a high concentration in cerebrospinal fluid. Since the third generation Cefazolin crosses the blood-brain barrier. That is why the third-gen has a higher activity rate against bacteria and other pathogens.
3. How to calculate Cefazolin dose?
Moderate-to-severe infections
0.5-1 g IV every 6-8hr
Mild infections with a gram-positive bacterial infection
250-500 mg IV every 8hr
Mild-to-moderate infections
1-2 g IV every 8hr for 4-7 days.
Urinary tract infection
1 g IV every 12 hr.
4. Is Cefazolin a penicillin?
Cefazolin is an excellent alternative to penicillin for patients who are reactive to penicillin. Cefazolin is a cephalosporin antibiotic medicine that is used to treat general infections caused by protozoa and bacteria. Although it is not penicillin, it is a good substitute for patients' reactions. However, Cefazolin may have its side effects.
5. Is Cefazolin ototoxic?
Cefazolin is a cause of ototoxicity to a lesser extent, but if used in excess, it may cause permanent damage to the ears. In some severe infections, high doses of Cefazolin are given, which may eventually cause permanent ear damage and hearing loss. The earliest sign of ototoxicity is tinnitus, which is ringing in the ears.
6. Why give Cefazolin slowly?
Cefazolin is administered by an intravenous dose slowly for three to five minutes. Bolus injection with approximately 5ml sterile water injection is given slowly over an IV dose. Intermittent or continuous infusion can also be preferred in 50 to 100 ml in 5% Dextrose Injection.
7. What kind of antibiotic is Cefazolin?
Cefazolin injection is in a category of drugs called cephalosporin antibiotics. It works by hindering and altering bacteria structurally. This drug acts by killing the bacteria present in the body; thus, it is bacteriostatic. Cephalosporins are the most trusted antibiotics to treat bacterial infections; therefore, Cefazolin has a high efficacy rate.
8. Is Cefazolin and Keflex the same?
Keflex (cephalexin) effectively cures many infections caused by bacteria and protozoa and is a generic drug. Cefazolin is available as a generic drug. It is suitable to treat many types of bacterial infections. Keflex can be found in tablets, capsules, and suspensions. The medication should be taken as per the prescription at regular intervals.
9. Is Cefazolin a strong antibiotic?
Cefazolin is used to treat infections caused by protozoa and bacteria. Depending upon the volume it is being used in, it can be considered a strong or mild antibiotic. High dosage can lead to some significant side effects. Patients should be aware that the chances for allergic reactions are higher.
10. How long does Cefazolin stay in your system?
Cefazolin drug is passed out unaltered through the urine. After 6 hours of taking the medication, 60% of the drug content would pass out in the urine, and in the next 24 hours, 70% to 80% would be removed from the body.
