Tazobactam is used in conjunction with penicillins, particularly with piperacillin, to treat infections caused by bacteria that produce beta-lactamase enzyme. These enzymes are involved in the bacterial resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics.
Starting from the age of 12, Tazobactam can be used to treat bacterial infections in the lungs, lower airways, abdomen, urinary tract, skin and blood. It is also useful to treat infections associated with neutropenia.
Before the age of 12, it is used to treat infectious complications of appendicitis (e.g. peritonitis) and to fight infections in children with neutropenia.
What is Tazobactam?
Tazobactam inhibits the activity of beta-lactamase enzymes produced by bacteria that allow the microbes to resist the action of penicillin.
How should Tazobactam be taken?
Tazobactam is typically administered with piperacillin in the form of injections or it is administered intravenously.
Side effects associated with Tazobactam
Prolonged treatment with antibiotics can be associated with the growth of microbes that are not sensitive to their action. Examples include candida, which may lead to the appearance of problems such as candidiasis.
Other possible side effects of treatment with antibiotics include the following:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomit
- Rash
- Reduced levels of white blood cells or platelets
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Hypotension
- Thrombophlebitis
- Constipation
- Indigestion
- Mouth pain
- Jaundice
- Fever
- Colitis
- Skin reactions
- Hepatitis
- Fatigue
- Muscle pain and weakness
- Hallucinations
- Convulsions
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Tazobactam
Before taking Tazobactam, it is important to inform your doctor:
- If you have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients, or to other medicines, (especially to penicillins, cephalosporins or to beta-lactamase inhibitors)
- If you are taking any other drugs, herbal remedies and supplements. Mentioning in particular: demetociclina, doxycycline, ethinyl estradiol, minocycline or tetracycline
- If you suffer from kidney problems, allergies or hypokalemia
- If you are have to follow a low-sodium diet
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
