From the Guidelines
The recommended intravenous (IV) dose of ceftazidime is 2 grams every 8 hours.
Important Considerations
- The dose may vary depending on the patient's condition, such as renal function and the severity of the infection.
- In critically ill patients, higher doses may be required to achieve optimal plasma concentrations, with some studies suggesting doses up to 12 grams per day 1.
- For patients with infections due to carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) or difficult-to-treat P. aeruginosa (DTR-PA), ceftazidime may be used at a dose of 2 grams IV every 8 hours, with a maximum daily dose of 12 grams 1.
- In patients with cystic fibrosis, ceftazidime may be used at a dose of 150-250 mg/kg/day, divided into 3-4 administrations per day, with a maximum daily dose of 12 grams 1.
- It is essential to monitor serum concentrations and adjust the dose accordingly to ensure optimal treatment and minimize the risk of toxicity.
- The choice of dose and administration schedule should be based on the individual patient's needs and the specific infection being treated, as well as the results of antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
- Ceftazidime should be used in combination with other antibiotics, such as aminoglycosides, to enhance its effectiveness and reduce the risk of resistance development 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The usual adult dosage is 1 gram administered intravenously or intramuscularly every 8 to 12 hours.
Table 3. Recommended Dosage Schedule Dose Frequency Adults Usual recommended dosage 1 gram intravenous or intramuscular every 8 to 12 hours
The recommended intravenous (IV) dose of ceftazidime is:
- 1 gram every 8 to 12 hours for usual recommended dosage in adults. Other dosages are recommended for specific conditions, such as:
- 250 mg every 12 hours for uncomplicated urinary tract infections
- 2 grams every 12 hours for bone and joint infections
- 500 mg every 8 to 12 hours for complicated urinary tract infections
- 2 grams every 8 hours for serious gynecologic and intra-abdominal infections, meningitis, and very severe life-threatening infections 2
From the Research
Recommended Intravenous (IV) Dose of Ceftazidime
The recommended IV dose of ceftazidime varies depending on the patient's condition and the severity of the infection.
- For patients with normal renal function, a dose of 2 g every 8 hours is commonly recommended 3, 4.
- However, for severe infections, especially those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, higher doses may be necessary 5, 6.
- In critically ill patients undergoing continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF), a dose of 2.5 g every 8 hours has been suggested 5.
- Continuous infusion of ceftazidime has also been recommended, with a dose of 3 g/day following a 2 g loading dose, to achieve serum concentrations more than four times the minimum inhibitory concentration for all susceptible pathogens 7.
- Therapeutic drug monitoring and adjustment of dosages based on ceftazidime concentrations in plasma and/or at the site of infection may also be necessary to ensure optimal treatment outcomes 6.
Special Considerations
- In patients with augmented renal clearance, extended infusion durations may be necessary to achieve optimal pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic targets 3.
- The use of ceftazidime in combination with avibactam may require different dosing regimens, and the recommended dose may vary depending on the specific infection being treated 3, 5, 6.
- The variability in plasma ceftazidime concentrations in critically ill patients highlights the need for careful monitoring and adjustment of dosages to ensure effective treatment 4.