Ceftazidime Classification
Ceftazidime (Ceftaz) is a third-generation cephalosporin.
Generation Classification
Ceftazidime is definitively classified as a third-generation cephalosporin based on multiple authoritative sources 1, 2, 3, 4
The FDA drug label explicitly describes ceftazidime as "a semisynthetic, broad-spectrum, beta-lactam antibacterial drug" with the characteristic third-generation cephalosporin structure 1
Key Distinguishing Features of Third-Generation Status
Spectrum of Activity:
Ceftazidime demonstrates the hallmark third-generation characteristic of enhanced activity against Gram-negative bacteria, particularly Enterobacteriaceae, while having reduced activity against Gram-positive organisms compared to first and second-generation cephalosporins 3, 5
It is notably the most active cephalosporin against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is a defining feature distinguishing it from earlier generation cephalosporins 2, 3, 4
Beta-lactamase Stability:
- Like other third-generation cephalosporins, ceftazidime is stable against common plasmid and chromosomally mediated beta-lactamases produced by Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas species 2
Clinical Context in Guidelines
Multiple clinical guidelines reference ceftazidime alongside other third-generation cephalosporins (cefotaxime, ceftriaxone) for specific indications, confirming its classification 6
Guidelines distinguish ceftazidime from fourth-generation cephalosporins (like cefepime), which have additional activity against AmpC-producing organisms 7
Ceftazidime is specifically recommended when Pseudomonas coverage is needed, such as in chronic suppurative otitis media or post-neurosurgical infections 6