Ceftriaxone (Jan 2014)

Question 1

TYPE:

Answer 1

3rd generation cephalosporin antibiotic [S4]

Question 2

PRESENTATION:

Answer 2

Vial – 1g Ceftriaxone powder for reconstitution

Question 3

ACTIONS:

Answer 3

1. Broad spectrum antibiotic
   Especially effective against gram-negative bacteria
   (e.g. Meningococcus)
2. Effective crossing of blood-brain barrier

Question 4

USE:

Answer 4

Suspected meningococcal disease, in acutely ill patients

Question 5

ADVERSE EFFECTS:

Answer 5

1. Hypersensitivity reactions (not common)
2. Diarrhoea
3. Skin rash

Question 6

PRECAUTIONS:

Answer 6

It is possible that 20% patients with a Penicillin allergy may be sensitive to Ceftriaxone.

Question 7

CONTRA-INDICATIONS:

Answer 7

Known sensitivity to cephalosporins

Question 8

DOSE:

Answer 8

50 mg/kg, to a total of 2g
IV preferred. But can also be given IO
Make up to 10ml with water for injection; give slowly over 2 – 4 minutes
May be administered IM:
Give two injections if dose is over 1g (i.e. over 3 mls volume).

Question 9

SPECIAL NOTE:

Answer 9

An incident report should be submitted to QSRM if Ceftriaxone is administered.