Antibiotic (Third-generation Cephalosporin)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Ceftazidime is a strong antibiotic that works by killing bacteria responsible for serious infections in your body. It belongs to the cephalosporin family of antibiotics and is given as an injection because it works faster and stronger that way.
Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins and preventing peptidoglycan cross-linking, resulting in bactericidal activity against gram-negative organisms, gram-positive cocci, and anaerobes commonly associated with severe infections.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
This drug is given as an injection into a vein (IV) or muscle (IM) by a doctor or nurse — do not try to inject yourself at home. The usual adult dose is 1g to 2g every 8 to 12 hours depending on how serious the infection is. Your doctor will decide the exact dose and how long you need it, usually 7 to 14 days.
Since this drug is usually given by a healthcare worker on a schedule, a missed dose should be given as soon as possible. Tell your nurse or doctor immediately if you think a dose was skipped so they can adjust your schedule. Do not double up on doses.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Always complete the full course of this antibiotic even if you start feeling better — stopping early can make the infection come back stronger and harder to treat. Make sure you receive this injection only at a hospital, clinic, or registered pharmacy — never buy reconstituted injections from roadside sellers or unregistered chemists. Do not share your prescription with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms.
Aminoglycoside antibiotics (like gentamicin) — when used together, your doctor needs to monitor your kidneys closely. Blood thinners like warfarin — ceftazidime may increase bleeding risk, so your doctor should check your blood clotting. Chloramphenicol — may reduce how well ceftazidime works and should generally not be combined.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Ceftazidime with your other drugs?
Ceftazidime should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if your doctor decides the benefit outweighs the risk — always consult your doctor before use.
Store the powder (before mixing) in a cool, dry place below 30°C — away from direct sunlight and humidity, which is important in Nigeria's hot climate. Once mixed with water for injection, use it within the time your pharmacist specifies (usually within 24 hours if refrigerated). Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Ceftazidime?
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