What is this medication?
CEFTRIAXONE (sef try AX one) treats infections caused by bacteria. It belongs to a group of medications called cephalosporin antibiotics. It will not treat colds, the flu, or infections caused by viruses.
Ceftriaxone is a broad-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat severe bacterial infections, including meningitis, pneumonia, and gonorrhea. It is administered by a healthcare professional directly into a vein (IV) or muscle (IM). [1, 2, 3]
Key Details & Safety
- Dosage: Standard adult doses range from 1 to 2 g daily (or divided every 12 hours). The maximum recommended daily dose is 4 g. [1, 2, 3]
- Drug Interactions: Ceftriaxone can be lethal in newborns if mixed with intravenous calcium products (like Ringer’s lactate or total parenteral nutrition). It must not be given within 48 hours of calcium administration in neonates. [1, 2]
- Precautions: Inform your doctor if you have liver/kidney disease, gallbladder problems, or a history of allergic reactions to penicillin or other cephalosporins. [1, 2]
- Common Side Effects: May include diarrhea, mild nausea, rash, or injection-site pain. Seek immediate medical help if you experience difficulty breathing, severe itching, or watery/bloody diarrhea