Rocephin (Ceftriaxone) 2 Gram Reconstitution for Injection
For intramuscular injection, reconstitute Rocephin 2 grams with 7.2 mL of diluent to achieve a 250 mg/mL concentration, or with 4.2 mL to achieve a 350 mg/mL concentration. 1, 2
Intramuscular (IM) Preparation
The FDA-approved reconstitution volumes for a 2 gram vial are:
- 7.2 mL of diluent → yields 250 mg/mL concentration 1, 2
- 4.2 mL of diluent → yields 350 mg/mL concentration 1, 2
Acceptable Diluents for IM Administration
The following diluents may be used for intramuscular reconstitution 1, 2:
- Sterile Water for Injection
- 0.9% Sodium Chloride Solution
- 5% Dextrose Solution
- Bacteriostatic Water + 0.9% Benzyl Alcohol
- 1% Lidocaine Solution (without epinephrine)
Administration Technique
- Inject the diluent into the vial and shake thoroughly to form solution 1, 2
- Withdraw entire contents of vial into syringe to equal total labeled dose 1, 2
- Inject well within the body of a relatively large muscle 1, 2
- Aspiration helps avoid unintentional injection into a blood vessel 1, 2
Intravenous (IV) Preparation
For intravenous administration, reconstitute the 2 gram vial with 19.2 mL of appropriate IV diluent, yielding approximately 100 mg/mL concentration. 1, 2
- After reconstitution, withdraw entire contents and dilute to the desired concentration (10-40 mg/mL recommended) with appropriate IV diluent 1
- Administer by infusion over 30 minutes in adults and children; 60 minutes in neonates to reduce risk of bilirubin encephalopathy 1, 2
Critical Safety Considerations
Do not use diluents containing calcium (such as Ringer's solution or Hartmann's solution) for reconstitution or further dilution, as particulate formation can result 1, 2
Stability After Reconstitution
IM solutions at 250 mg/mL or 350 mg/mL concentrations remain stable 1, 2:
- Room temperature (25°C): 2 days (24 hours for bacteriostatic water or lidocaine solution)
- Refrigerated (4°C): 10 days (3 days for 350 mg/mL concentration)