Aztreonam

Welcome to Dwaey, specifically on Aztreonam page.
This medicine contains important and useful components, as it consists of
Aztreonam is available in the market in concentration.

Generic Name of Aztreonam - Learn More

Aztreonam

Aztreonam Precaution - What You Need to Know

Aztreonam is a monocyclic beta-lactam antibiotic that is used to treat infections caused by gram-negative bacteria. Before using aztreonam, it is essential to assess the patient’s history of hypersensitivity to beta-lactam antibiotics, such as penicillins or cephalosporins, as cross-reactivity can occur in individuals with known allergies to these drugs. Caution is also needed in patients with a history of renal impairment, as aztreonam is primarily excreted unchanged through the kidneys. Dose adjustments may be required in such cases. Aztreonam should be used cautiously in patients with gastrointestinal diseases, particularly colitis, as it can cause or exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea. For pregnant women, aztreonam is classified as a Category B drug, which means that it is considered safe for use during pregnancy when the benefits outweigh the risks, but it should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Aztreonam is also excreted into breast milk, so caution is advised when administering the drug to breastfeeding mothers. Monitoring for signs of allergic reactions, renal dysfunction, and gastrointestinal issues is recommended during treatment with aztreonam.

Aztreonam Indication - Uses and Benefits

Aztreonam is primarily indicated for the treatment of infections caused by gram-negative bacteria, particularly in patients who are allergic to other beta-lactam antibiotics. The primary conditions treated by aztreonam include:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Caused by susceptible gram-negative bacteria.
- Respiratory tract infections: Such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and other lower respiratory infections.
- Intra-abdominal infections: Including peritonitis and infections of the abdominal cavity, often in combination with other antibiotics.
- Skin and soft tissue infections: Caused by gram-negative organisms, including those acquired in healthcare settings.
- Septicemia: Infections that spread through the bloodstream, particularly those caused by gram-negative pathogens.
- Pelvic infections: Including infections associated with surgery or childbirth.
Aztreonam is often used when a patient has a known allergy to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics, as it provides an effective alternative for treating gram-negative bacterial infections. Off-label, it may also be used for more complex or resistant infections based on the susceptibility of the pathogen.

Aztreonam Contraindications - Important Warnings

Aztreonam is contraindicated in individuals who have a known hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components. Patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to other beta-lactam antibiotics (such as penicillins or cephalosporins) may also be at increased risk of cross-reactivity and should avoid using aztreonam. Severe hypersensitivity reactions can include anaphylaxis, rash, or other life-threatening responses. Aztreonam is not recommended for use in patients with a history of serious liver or renal dysfunction unless the benefits of therapy outweigh the risks, and careful monitoring is performed. Patients with gastrointestinal diseases, especially those with a history of colitis or antibiotic-associated diarrhea, should use aztreonam cautiously, as it may cause further complications. The use of aztreonam should be avoided in patients with a known history of seizures or in those who are taking drugs that can lower the seizure threshold, as there may be a slight increase in the risk of seizures.

Aztreonam Side Effects - What to Expect

The most common side effects of aztreonam include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These effects are generally mild and resolve with discontinuation or adjustment of therapy. Other common side effects may include headache, rash, and injection site reactions (in the case of injectable formulations). More serious but less common side effects include:
- Hypersensitivity reactions: Such as rash, itching, or anaphylaxis.
- Renal toxicity: Aztreonam can cause kidney problems, particularly in patients with preexisting renal dysfunction or when used in combination with other nephrotoxic drugs.
- Hematologic effects: Including neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and eosinophilia, though these are rare.
- Seizures: In some cases, aztreonam may lower the seizure threshold, especially in patients with a history of seizures or in those receiving other medications that affect the central nervous system.
- Superinfection: Prolonged use of aztreonam may result in secondary infections, such as fungal or antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.
Patients should seek medical attention if they experience any severe reactions, including signs of an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat) or symptoms suggestive of renal dysfunction (e.g., reduced urine output, swelling in the legs or feet).

Aztreonam Pregnancy Category ID - Safety Information

2

Aztreonam Mode of Action - How It Works

Aztreonam is a beta-lactam antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located in the bacterial cell membrane. By binding to these proteins, aztreonam prevents the final step in cell wall synthesis, leading to cell wall instability and eventual bacterial cell lysis (rupture). This action is bactericidal, meaning it directly kills the bacteria rather than simply inhibiting its growth. Aztreonam is particularly effective against gram-negative bacteria, including *Escherichia coli*, *Klebsiella pneumoniae*, *Haemophilus influenzae*, and *Pseudomonas aeruginosa*. Unlike other beta-lactams, aztreonam has minimal activity against gram-positive organisms, making it a useful option for treating infections caused by resistant gram-negative bacteria. The drug is well-absorbed, especially when administered parenterally, and it is excreted primarily unchanged by the kidneys.

Aztreonam Drug Interactions - What to Avoid

Aztreonam has relatively few significant drug-drug interactions, but there are some important considerations:
- Probenecid: When used together with probenecid, a drug that reduces renal clearance, aztreonam’s levels may be increased, potentially leading to higher concentrations and an increased risk of toxicity. It is generally recommended to avoid combining these medications unless closely monitored.
- Aminoglycosides: Concurrent use of aztreonam with aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin, tobramycin) may increase the risk of nephrotoxicity, as both drugs are excreted through the kidneys and can potentially have additive renal toxic effects. Close monitoring of renal function is advised.
- Warfarin: Aztreonam may increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin, although this interaction is not well-established. Patients receiving both drugs should have their coagulation status monitored regularly to avoid an increased risk of bleeding.
- Diuretics: Certain diuretics, particularly those that affect electrolyte balance (e.g., furosemide), may interact with aztreonam, increasing the risk of nephrotoxicity. Regular monitoring of kidney function is essential.
- Food and Alcohol: There are no significant interactions with food or alcohol when taking aztreonam, although patients are typically advised to take the drug as directed, either with or without food, depending on the formulation.

Aztreonam Adult Dose - Recommended Dosage

For adult patients, the standard dosage of aztreonam depends on the severity of the infection and the patient’s renal function:
- Mild to moderate infections: 500 mg to 1 g every 8-12 hours.
- Severe infections: 1-2 g every 8 hours.
- Pneumonia: 1 g every 8 hours for moderate to severe cases.
- Urinary tract infections: 500 mg to 1 g every 8-12 hours.
- Sepsis or intra-abdominal infections: 1-2 g every 8 hours.
In cases of renal impairment, the dose may need to be adjusted based on the patient's creatinine clearance. The total dose should be reduced in those with renal dysfunction to avoid accumulation and toxicity.

Aztreonam Child Dose - Dosage for Children

For pediatric patients, the dosage of aztreonam depends on the child’s weight and the severity of the infection:
- For children ≥1 month to <2 years: 30 mg/kg every 8 hours.
- For children ≥2 years: 30-50 mg/kg every 8 hours, up to a maximum of 2 g per dose.
In cases of severe infections or those involving resistant bacteria, higher doses may be prescribed, but the total daily dose should not exceed the adult dose. It is important to adjust the dose in children with renal impairment similarly to adults, taking care to avoid drug accumulation. Regular monitoring of kidney function and signs of adverse effects is recommended during treatment in children.

Aztreonam Renal Dose - Dosage for Kidney Conditions

In patients with renal impairment, aztreonam dosage should be adjusted to avoid toxicity due to decreased renal clearance. The typical dose adjustments are as follows:
- Mild renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30-50 mL/min): No dose adjustment is usually required, but caution should be used, and renal function should be monitored.
- Moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance 10-29 mL/min): The dose should be reduced by 50% to prevent accumulation.
- Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <10 mL/min): In this case, the dose should be reduced by 75%, and dosing frequency should be extended.
For patients undergoing dialysis, a supplemental dose may be required after each dialysis session. Frequent monitoring of renal function is essential during treatment.