Another Name for Ceftriaxone: Generic, Uses, Side Effects, Dosages, Interactions & Warnings
What are the generic names for ceftriaxone? What are the uses, side effects, dosages, interactions, and warnings of this medication? Learn more about this antibiotic.
Ceftriaxone: Generic Names and Overview
Ceftriaxone is an antibiotic belonging to the cephalosporin class. It is used to prevent and treat certain bacterial infections, such as those affecting the lungs, urinary tract, skin, abdomen, bones, joints, and the lining of the brain (meningitis). Ceftriaxone can also be used to treat gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection.
Ceftriaxone is available under various generic names, including:
- Rocephin
- Ceftriaxone sodium
- Ceftriaxone injection
Uses of Ceftriaxone
What is ceftriaxone used for? Ceftriaxone is indicated for the treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections, including:
- Pneumonia and other respiratory tract infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Abdominal infections
- Bone and joint infections
- Meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain)
- Gonorrhea (a sexually transmitted infection)
The specific use of ceftriaxone will depend on the type of infection, the bacteria causing it, and the patient’s response to the treatment.
Side Effects of Ceftriaxone
What are the possible side effects of ceftriaxone? Like all medications, ceftriaxone can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. The most common side effects associated with ceftriaxone include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rash
- Headache
- Pain or irritation at the injection site
Most of these side effects are mild and may go away on their own over time. However, if they persist or become bothersome, it is important to contact your healthcare provider.
Ceftriaxone Dosages
What are the typical dosages of ceftriaxone? The recommended dose and dosing schedule of ceftriaxone can vary depending on the specific infection being treated, the patient’s response to therapy, and other medications or treatments being used. The dose is also based on factors such as age, body weight, and kidney and liver function. Generally, the following dosages are used:
- For moderate to severe infections in adults: 1 g to 2 g daily, either once every 24 hours or divided into two equal doses every 12 hours
- For uncomplicated gonorrhea in adults: a single dose of 250 mg injected into a muscle
- For children 12 years and under: the dose is based on body weight and given every 12 hours
- The maximum daily dose for both adults and children is 4 g
The duration of treatment typically ranges from 4 to 14 days, depending on the type of infection. Some infections may require only a single dose, while others may need several weeks of treatment.
Interactions and Warnings with Ceftriaxone
What should I know about interactions and warnings with ceftriaxone? There are a few important things to consider when taking ceftriaxone:
- Do not use ceftriaxone if you are allergic to ceftriaxone, other cephalosporins, or penicillins.
- Do not give ceftriaxone to newborns or premature infants with high levels of bilirubin in their blood.
- Do not give ceftriaxone to newborns who are receiving or expected to receive calcium-containing intravenous solutions, as this combination can be dangerous.
- Ceftriaxone may interact with certain other medications, so be sure to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.
It is important to take ceftriaxone exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to complete the full course of treatment, even if you start feeling better. Discontinuing the medication too early can lead to a relapse or worsening of the infection.
Conclusion
Ceftriaxone is a versatile and effective antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It is available under various generic names and is typically administered by injection into a vein or muscle. While ceftriaxone is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects, and there are some important interactions and warnings to be aware of. It is crucial to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider and to complete the full course of treatment.
Rocephin – Uses, Side Effects, Interactions
How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
Ceftriaxone belongs to the family of antibiotics known as cephalosporins. It is used to prevent or treat certain infections caused by bacteria. It is given by injection only into a muscle or vein.
Ceftriaxone is often used to treat infections of the lung, urinary tract, skin, abdomen, bone, joint, and lining of the brain (meningitis), depending on the bacteria causing them. It can also be used to treat gonorrhea (a sexually transmitted infection).
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Rocephin is no longer being manufactured for sale in Canada. For brands that may still be available, search under ceftriaxone. This article is being kept available for reference purposes only. If you are using this medication, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for information about your treatment options.
How should I use this medication?
To treat bacterial infections, the recommended dose and dosing schedule of ceftriaxone varies according to the specific infection being treated, the response to therapy, and other medications or treatments being used. The dose administered is also based on age, body size, and kidney and liver function. For moderate to severe infections in adults, the dose ranges from 1 g to 2 g daily given once every 24 hours or divided into 2 equal doses and given every 12 hours.
For uncomplicated gonorrhea in adults, one dose of 250 mg is injected into a muscle.
For children 12 years of age and under, the dose is based on body weight and is given every 12 hours. The maximum daily dose for adults and children is 4 g. The duration of treatment depends on the type of infection and usually ranges from 4 to 14 days. Some infections require only one dose while others require treatment for several weeks.
Ceftriaxone is injected into a vein or into a muscle by a health care professional under the supervision of your doctor.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Store this medication (as unmixed vials) at room temperature, protect it from light, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not use this medication if you:
- are allergic to ceftriaxone or any ingredients of this medication
- are allergic to other cephalosporins (e.g., cephalexin) or penicillins (e.g., penicillin, amoxicillin)
- the risk of developing a reaction to ceftriaxone given a history of cephalosporin or penicillin allergy is relatively low, but check with your health care provider before starting treatment
Do not give this medication to a newborn or premature infant who has high amounts of bilirubin in their blood.
Do not give this medication to a newborn who is receiving (or expected to receive) calcium-containing intravenous solutions (calcium-containing solutions should not be given within 5 days of ceftriaxone in infants up to 10 weeks of age).
What side effects are possible with this medication?
Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.
The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.
The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.
Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.
- dizziness
- headache
- mild diarrhea
Although most of the side effects listed below don’t happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention.
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
- chills
- fever
- pain, redness, and swelling at site of injection
- rash
Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:
- severe, persistent diarrhea
- symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, e.g.:
- difficulty breathing
- hives
- swelling of the mouth, throat, or tongue
Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.
Are there any other precautions or warnings for this medication?
Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health.
These factors may affect how you should use this medication.
Allergic reactions: Ceftriaxone can cause severe allergic reactions. If you develop symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat), get immediate medical attention.
Anemia: Although rare, certain drugs can cause a blood condition called hemolytic anemia, where people have low red blood cells due to premature destruction of this type of blood cell. If you have a history of cephalosporin-related hemolytic anemia, you should talk to your doctor before starting treatment.
Blood tests: Depending on various factors, including how long you will be receiving treatment, your doctor may order blood tests while you are taking ceftriaxone.
Calcium-containing solutions: The interaction with calcium-containing solutions has only been reported for newborns. For all other people, ceftriaxone can be administered before or after calcium-containing solutions provided that the infusion lines are flushed well in between the solutions.
In newborns, calcium-containing solutions should not be given within 5 days for infants up to 10 weeks of age.
Gallbladder disease: If you have gallbladder disease, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Kidney problems: Ceftriaxone may cause kidney stones. If you have high calcium levels in your urine or a history of kidney stones, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Low vitamin K: People with impaired vitamin K synthesis or low vitamin K stores (e.g., chronic liver disease and malnutrition) may require monitoring of blood clotting during treatment, as ceftriaxone may decrease clotting ability.
Overgrowth of organisms: Treatment with this antibiotic may allow normal fungus or types of bacteria not killed by the antibiotic to overgrow, causing unwanted infections.
Stomach and bowel disorders: If you have stomach and bowel problems (especially colitis), discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Pregnancy: This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: Ceftriaxone passes into breast milk in small amounts. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking ceftriaxone, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: Newborn and premature infants (up to the age of 10 weeks) should not receive calcium-containing solutions within 5 days of receiving ceftriaxone.
What other drugs could interact with this medication?
There may be an interaction between ceftriaxone and any of the following:
- anticoagulant medications (e.
g., warfarin) - solutions injected into a vein that contain calcium
- typhoid vaccine
g., warfarin)If you are taking any of these medications, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:
- stop taking one of the medications,
- change one of the medications to another,
- change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
- leave everything as is.
An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.
Medications other than those listed above may interact with this medication. Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2023. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/Rocephin
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Parenteral | 1 G/3.5ML |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Parenteral | 500 MG/2ML |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous; Parenteral | 1 G/10ML |
| Powder, for solution | 2 G | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Parenteral | 0.5 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous; Parenteral | 1000 MG/10ML |
| Injection, powder, for solution | 1000 mg | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular | 1 G/3. 5ML |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 500 mg/5ml |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular | 1 gr |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 1 gr |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular | 250 mg |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 250 mg |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 500 mg |
| Injection, solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular | 0.5 g |
| Injection, solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 1 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 0.5 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Parenteral | 1 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | 250 MG | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 250 mg |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 500 mg |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Parenteral | 2 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 2 gr |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Parenteral | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Parenteral | 250 mg |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 1. 184 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | |
| Injection, powder, for suspension | Parenteral | 1 g |
| Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 1 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 1 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular | 1 g/1 |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular | 250 mg/1 |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 1 g/10mL |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 2 g/1 |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 250 mg/1 |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 1 g/1 |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 10 g/1 |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 10 g/100mL |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 100 mg/1mL |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 100 g/1 |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 2 g/1 |
| Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution | Intravenous | 100 mg/1mL |
| Powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 1 g/1 |
| Powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 2 g/1 |
| Powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 250 mg/1 |
| Powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 500 mg/1 |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Parenteral | 250 MG/2ML |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 1. 0 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 2.0 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous; Parenteral | 500 MG/5ML |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Parenteral | 1 G/10ML |
| Powder, for solution | Parenteral | 2 G |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Parenteral | 250 MG |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Parenteral | 500 MG |
| Powder, for solution | Intravenous | 100 g / bag |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular | 250 MG/2ML |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular | 500 MG/2ML |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 1 G/10ML |
| Solution | Intravenous | 1000 mg / 50 mL |
| Solution | Intravenous | 2000 mg / 50 mL |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 2000 mg/bottle |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 500 mg/vial |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 1000 mg/vial |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 1 g/1 |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 500 mg/1 |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 500 mg/1 |
| Powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 0. 25 g / vial |
| Powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 10 g / vial |
| Powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 1 g / vial |
| Powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 2 g / vial |
| Powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 250 mg / vial |
| Powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 500 mg / vial |
| Powder, for solution | Intravenous | 10 g / vial |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 2 g |
| Injection | ||
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 1 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | ||
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | |
| Powder, for solution | ||
| Injection, solution | Intramuscular | 0. 5 g |
| Injection | Intravenous | 0.5 g |
| Injection, solution | Intramuscular | 1 g |
| Solution | Intravenous | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular | 1 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular | 500 mg |
| Kit | Intramuscular; Intravenous; Topical | |
| Injection, solution | Intravenous | 0.5 g |
| Injection, solution | Intravenous | 1 g |
| Injection | Intramuscular; Intravenous | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular | 0.5 gr |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 0.5 gr |
| Injection; injection, powder, for solution | 1 g | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | 1 g | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 1000. 0 mg |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 2000.0 mg |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 1000 mg |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 2000 mg |
| Injection | Intramuscular | 1000 mg |
| Injection | Intravenous | 1000 mg |
| Injection | Intramuscular | 250 mg |
| Injection | Intramuscular | 500 mg |
| Injection | Intramuscular | 0.5 g/2ml |
| Injection | Intravenous | 0.5 g/5ml |
| Injection | Intravenous | 1 g/10ml |
| Injection | Intramuscular | 1 g/3.5ml |
| Injection | Intravenous | 2 g |
| Powder | 2 G | |
| Injection | 1 g | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Parenteral | 1 MG/3. 5ML |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Parenteral | 1 G |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous; Parenteral | 250 MG/5ML |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Parenteral | 500 mg |
| Injection, solution | Intravenous | 1 g/50mL |
| Injection, solution | Intravenous | 2 g/50mL |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular | 1 g/vial |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous | 1 g/vial |
| Powder, for solution | Intravenous | 1 g / vial |
| Injection, solution | Intramuscular | |
| Injection | Intravenous | 1 g |
| Injection | Intravenous | 250 mg |
| Injection | Intravenous | |
| Injection | Intramuscular | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | |
| Injection, solution | Intravenous | 2 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intravenous; Parenteral | 1 G |
| Powder | ||
| Injection, solution | Intramuscular | |
| Injection, solution | Intravenous | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 0. 25 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 0.5 g |
| Injection, powder, for solution | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 2 g |
| Injection | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 1 g |
| Injection | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 250 MG |
| Injection | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 1 gr |
| Injection | Intramuscular; Intravenous | 0.5 gr |
| Injection | 1000 MG | |
| Injection | 500 MG | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | 2 G | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | 500 MG | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | 250 mg/1vial | |
| Injection, powder, for solution | 500 mg/1vial | |
| Powder | 500 mg/1vial | |
| Powder | 250 mg/1vial | |
| Powder |
The most effective antibiotics for pneumonia, treatment regimen for children and adults
Date of publication: 04.
02.2021
THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. SPECIALIST CONSULTATION IS REQUIREDAntibiotics in capsulesAntibiotics in tabletsWet coughFor immunityAntibiotic ointmentsAnti-inflammatory dropsAntibiotic solutions for external useDry coughPillsPillsPills against inflammationPills against feverImmune strengthening
Author of the article 900 03
Grishina Alexandra Nikolaevna,
General practitioner
All authors
Contents of the article
- What is pneumonia
- Antibiotics for pneumonia in adults, general principles
- Types of antibiotics for the treatment of pneumonia
- Antibiotic treatment regimen for pneumonia in adults
- The most effective antibiotics in the treatment of viral pneumonia
- Why antibiotics are ineffective
A hundred years ago, pneumonia was rightfully considered an extremely dangerous disease, as it often led to the death of a patient.
The disease still poses a threat today. But thanks to the advent of antibacterial drugs, its danger has significantly decreased. When used properly as prescribed by a doctor, antibiotics provide recovery and prevent the complications of pneumonia. Conversely, the uncontrolled use of these drugs can cause irreparable harm to the health of the patient.
What is pneumonia
This is a lung disease, predominantly of an infectious nature, affecting the alveoli (the ends of the lungs) and disrupting gas exchange at their level.
The disease is manifested by:
- Chest pain
- Cough with sputum
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath, shortness of breath
- High fever
Symptoms range from mild to severe. It depends on the type of microorganism that caused the disease, the age of the patient and the general state of health. In adults who do not have serious pathologies, the disease is milder. It poses the greatest danger to young children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems.
If pneumonia is suspected, laboratory tests of blood and sputum, chest X-ray are performed. For a more detailed examination, CT (computed tomography) of the lungs is used. If the diagnosis is confirmed, the doctor prescribes antibiotics. Their use is necessary to prevent further development of infection and prevent complications.
Antibiotics for pneumonia in adults, general principles
Treatment begins immediately after radiological confirmation of the diagnosis. For therapy, doctors use broad-spectrum antibiotics. After an accurate determination of the microbial pathogen in the sputum, the treatment plan can be adjusted: a drug is prescribed to which the identified microorganism is most sensitive.
Also, the replacement of one antibacterial agent with another is carried out if:
- After taking the drug, improvement does not occur within 3 days.
- Significant side effects have occurred from the use of a particular product.
- The antibiotic is too toxic for a certain group of patients (children, pregnant women).
A decrease in temperature, a decrease in shortness of breath, signs of intoxication, and sputum count 72 hours after the start of treatment indicates the correct prescription of the drug.
Types of antibiotics for the treatment of pneumonia
When prescribing drugs of this group, the following is taken into account:
- Type of pneumonia (croupous, aspiration, focal, hilar)
- Patient’s age
- Severity of the condition
Antibiotics of the new generation are considered to be the most effective. Their advantage lies in the rapid impact on pathogenic microorganisms, fewer side effects, and better tolerance by patients. Modern drugs have a long duration of action, so they are taken only 1-2 times a day. While antibacterial agents of the 1st and 2nd generations – up to four.
Each group of antibacterial agents is effective against a specific type of pathogen.
So, to combat pneumococci, the penicillin series is used. With pneumonia caused by chlamydia and mycoplasmas, macrolides, fluoroquinols are prescribed. And E. coli destroy cephalosporins.
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Treatment regimen for pneumonia in adults with antibiotics
Mild to moderate illness can be treated at home. Therapy is carried out with antibiotics in tablets, capsules, in the form of a suspension or syrup. In severe and complicated forms, injections are prescribed. If the disease is very difficult, in the first days the drugs are administered intravenously, and later – intramuscularly. And only after the condition improves, the patient is transferred to a tablet intake. This transition from one form of drug administration to another is called a “stepped” course of treatment.
Prescribe antibacterial agents for at least 7 days. Depending on the result of the control X-ray examination, then they are either canceled or a treatment course is prescribed with new antibiotics.
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The most effective antibiotics in the treatment of viral pneumonia
For the treatment of viral pneumonia, completely different drugs are used than with therapy for other forms of this disease. This is due to the fact that its pathogens are viruses that are not sensitive to antibacterial drugs. Therefore, their use is not only useless, but also dangerous. The use of antibiotics for other purposes causes the development of resistance in pathogenic bacteria. And when the drugs are really needed, they may not have the desired effect. Antibiotics are used only with a mixed nature of pneumonia or the development of purulent complications.
Why antibiotics are ineffective
Reduced effectiveness of drugs is caused by:
- Resistance of microorganisms to a particular drug prescribed for treatment
- Frequent change of antibacterial drugs, due to which pathogenic microbes get used to them
- Wrong dosage 9 0016
cases are observed in patients who often self-medicate and take antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription.
Pneumonia cannot be treated without antibiotics. Today, this is the only effective measure to eliminate the microorganisms that caused the disease. But therapy must be carried out under medical supervision. Independently and often incorrectly selected drugs cause side effects, cause complications and increase the duration of treatment.
Sources
- Pneumonia, American Lung Association. (2019)
- “Clinical guidelines for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of severe community-acquired pneumonia in adults”, Russian Respiratory Society (RRS) Interregional Association for Clinical Microbiology and Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (IACMAC)
- Viral Pneumonia, Southeastern Regional Medical Center, USA, North Carolina
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How to give an injection to a dog yourself at home
The injection procedure for a dog can be quite delicate and potentially painful.
However, with the right knowledge, anyone can learn how to give injections effectively and almost painlessly.
How to prepare your pet for an injection
If you are going to inject your dog, make sure everything is ready beforehand. It’s also best to have another person help hold your pet, especially if you’re injecting him for the first time.
Preparing a pet for drug administration
Some animals hardly notice the injection, others behave restlessly or aggressively. In this case, it is worth reassuring the pet with a conversation, stroking. In some cases, it is better to use a muzzle or a special fixation bag for miniature breeds.
Let your pet get used to the syringe. Fill it with a dose of medicine and let it smell. Be careful that the animal does not injure itself with a needle, keep the cap closed. You may not be able to smell the liquid, but trust me, your dog can!
Once you’ve made sure your pet is calm, it’s time to inject.
If your dog has had injections before, they probably associate syringes with pain and discomfort. To combat this, give treats and use other forms of positive reinforcement such as praise and games.
Preparation for injection
Preparation is necessary not only for the pet, but also for its owner.
Regardless of which medication you are administering, be sure to wear gloves. This prevents any contaminants from entering the injection site.
In addition to gloves you will need:
● List of veterinarian prescriptions.
Feel free to ask your doctor how to properly inject, how to dilute the drug, if necessary. Pay attention to the dosage, frequency and duration of the drug.
● Sterile disposable syringes.
Each injection requires a separate syringe. It must be disposed of after use. In one syringe, the drugs are mixed only as directed by the doctor.
For small animals weighing up to 5 kg, insulin syringes or 2-3 ml are used, while the amount of the drug for injection should not be more than 1 ml.
For larger dogs, 5-10 ml syringes are used, if the consistency of the medicine allows, then a smaller needle can be taken.
● Vial or ampoule with the preparation.
Check the name of the drug, its concentration, expiration date. If everything is in order, then the medicine needs to be warmed up a little in the hands or in a container of warm water.
Some drugs must be shaken before use.
If you are using a multi-injection vial, make sure it is properly stored. Opened ampoules, as a rule, do not store.
● Antiseptic.
Used to prepare the injection site. You can use alcohol wipes sold in pharmacies.
● Bandage or cotton ball to clean the skin after injection.
● Self-locking bandage to protect the intravenous catheter.
Subcutaneous injections
Before performing the injection yourself, see how it is performed by a veterinary assistant, then you will do it at home:
● Maintaining sterility, draw the medicine into the syringe and place it nearby.
● Find the area of skin between the shoulder blades. Gently pinch this area between your thumb and forefinger. When you gently pull the skin up, you will see a small indentation between the fingers.
● Disinfect the injection site.
● Holding the syringe in the opposite hand, insert the sterile needle straight into the recess. Keep the needle parallel to your back. If you tilt the syringe too far, you could hit a muscle, pierce your skin, or stick a needle in your own finger.
● With the right technique, the needle seems to fall through and the medicine comes out of the syringe without resistance with slight pressure on the piston.
● When the syringe is empty, remove the needle.
● If there is no bleeding or medication leakage, the pet can be released.
Intramuscular injections
The easiest way to perform subcutaneous injections. Sometimes the doctor indicates in the appointments that the drug can be administered both subcutaneously and intramuscularly, in which case it is better for you to choose the first option.
If the doctor gave strict recommendations to inject the drug into the muscle, then here is the instruction:
● Maintaining sterility, draw the medicine into the syringe and place it nearby.
● Locate the injection site using the technique your veterinarian has shown you, usually the widest part of the thigh muscle.
● Clean the injection site with an alcohol pad.
● Holding the syringe with one hand, insert the sterile needle directly through the skin into the underlying muscle. The needle penetration angle should be between 45° and 90°. If your angle is too small, you may not inject the drug deep enough.
● After the needle is inserted, pull back only the plunger. If you see blood, remove the needle and try another site. Otherwise push the plunger forward to empty the syringe.
● When the syringe is empty, withdraw the needle in the same way as it was inserted to avoid breaking the tip.
● Pinch the injection site with a cotton ball for a minute.
After the injection, praise your pet, stroke it and treat it with a treat.
Subcutaneous sites for intramuscular injections
Intravenous injection through an intravenous catheter
With the intravenous route of administration, the drugs begin to work faster. The owner will not be able to independently inject into a vein, unless an intravenous catheter is previously installed – a flexible plastic tube that is located in a blood vessel, and an external port that is attached with a patch to the skin. The catheter does not cause much inconvenience to the animal, but so that the pet does not remove it on its own, a bitter self-locking bandage is used. Install the catheter on the paw for 3-5 days, then, if necessary, change.
To make an intravenous injection at home you need:
● Maintaining sterility, draw up the medicine into the syringe and put it nearby.
● Unwind the self-locking bandage.
● Verify that the catheter has not moved or is externally damaged.
● Check if the tubing is still in the vein. To do this, draw 2-3 ml of sterile saline solution into the syringe. Sodium Chloride 0.9%, remove the needle. Unscrew the port cap, firmly insert the syringe tip and gently push the plunger. If it is difficult to give in, the skin is inflated over the catheter, the animal behaves restlessly or whines, then the device must be replaced.
● After the catheter has been flushed, you can attach a syringe without a needle with the main drug to it and slowly press the plunger. In this case, the paw of the animal must be straightened.
● After drug administration, the catheter should be flushed again with a small amount of saline. Close the lid.
● If blood gets on the paw while changing syringes, it must be cleaned with hydrogen peroxide.
● After the procedure, make sure that the catheter covers are closed and loosely wrap the paw with a self-locking bandage.
Injection errors
Errors in injecting drugs are a serious problem. Owners need to familiarize themselves with them in order not to commit them:
● Wrong dose and regimen.
Pay attention to the dosage of the drug and how often it needs to be administered. Don’t skip injections. This can affect your pet’s health.
● Not the right medicine.
Before each use, carefully read the label, as vials and ampoules of different drugs may look similar in appearance.
● Method and place of administration.
Do not inject drugs into places not intended for this.
● Execute a procedure.
Observe sterility. Check that the needle is firmly attached to the syringe. Follow the injection technique so as not to harm yourself or your pet.
Possible complications
If mistakes are made during the injection, the animal may experience unpleasant consequences:
Lameness
Lameness occurs more often in miniature breed dogs with the introduction of painful oily preparations, with the injection of vitamins.
Large dogs may begin to limp when given large amounts of medication. In this regard, fluid volumes greater than 5 ml should be administered at different sites. Before performing an injection, it is better to consult with your doctor.
Also, lameness can occur when the injection fails and the sciatic nerve is injured, in which case the animal can hardly use the limb for up to several weeks.
If lameness occurs, do not massage, heat the injection site. The pet should be provided with peace, injections into a healthy limb.
If the paw becomes hot, there is a seal, the condition of the animal worsens, you should contact the veterinary clinic. If only lameness worries, then over time it will pass on its own.
Tissue infiltration
In the subcutaneous fatty tissue, and sometimes in the muscles, an accumulation of blood and lymph cells can form – an infiltrate. It feels like a lump in the form of a ball, painful and warm. Infiltration can occur for a number of reasons:
● Ingestion of an irritating drug subcutaneously.
● Non-compliance with the rules of asepsis and antisepsis.
● Needle removal error.
● Injection of solutions that are too cold.
● Injection of the drug in the same place.
To eliminate the infiltrate, dry heat should be used 1-2 times a day for 15-20 minutes. The compress can be done with a warm cloth or a not too hot water heater. Usually, the infiltrate resolves on its own within a few days, but if the seal increases, you should not heat it, you need to contact a veterinarian and exclude purulent inflammation.
Purulent inflammation
Purulent inflammation can occur in two forms:
● Abscess – a cavity with purulent contents.
● Phlegmon – diffuse diffuse purulent inflammation in the tissues.
The septic process occurs when infectious agents enter the tissues, and the aseptic process occurs due to an error in the administration of the drug.
With the formation of an abscess or phlegmon, the process develops quite quickly.
Locally, you can notice an increase in tissues, to the touch they can be both soft and dense, there is pain. The skin becomes hot. Fever may occur, the animal becomes lethargic, refuses food.
To prevent the formation of purulent inflammation, you should:
● Use disposable syringes and needles.
● Treat the injection site with an antiseptic.
● Do not reuse the drug from the opened ampoule.
It is impossible to heat an abscess and phlegmon. The animal must receive surgical treatment: excision of tissues, removal of pus, washing of the cavity, antibiotic therapy.
Necrosis
Necrosis is the death of tissues. Most often it is formed when irritating drugs get under the skin or intradermally. To prevent such a problem, before administering solutions intravenously, it is imperative to check whether the functionality of the catheter is impaired.
If the irritating solution does get under the skin, you should immediately contact the veterinary clinic for urgent action.
In case of necrosis, surgical removal of dead tissue is necessary.
Allergy
Allergic reactions with the introduction of drugs often occur in the form of urticaria or Quincke’s edema. A reaction may occur 15-30 minutes after injection.
Anaphylactic shock develops rapidly, usually within minutes. The main signs of anaphylaxis in animals:
● Respiratory failure.
● Sluggishness.
● Anxiety.
● Lower blood pressure.
● Violation of the heart rhythm.
Unfortunately, it is impossible to predict whether your pet will develop an allergy to the drug. Therefore, you should monitor the condition of the animal and, in case of deterioration, immediately contact the veterinary clinic.
Vascular embolism
An embolism is a condition in which there is a blockage of blood vessels by oily solutions or air.
To prevent this from happening, release air from the syringe, follow the injection technique.