Antibiotic (Third-generation Cephalosporin)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Ceftriaxone is a strong antibiotic injection that works by killing bacteria responsible for serious infections in the 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 cross-linking of peptidoglycan strands, leading to cell wall disruption and bactericidal death across a broad spectrum of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
This is NOT a drug you take by yourself at home — it must be given as an injection by a nurse, doctor, or trained health worker. The usual adult dose is 1g to 2g once daily, either into the muscle (buttocks) or through a drip (IV). Your doctor may increase the dose to 4g daily for very serious infections. Treatment usually lasts 7 to 14 days depending on the infection.
Since ceftriaxone is given by a health worker, if you miss your scheduled injection appointment, go back to the hospital or clinic as soon as possible. Do not skip doses — missing injections can make the infection come back stronger and harder to treat.
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 injections your doctor prescribed — stopping early because you feel better can cause the infection to return and become resistant to treatment. Do not buy ceftriaxone from roadside vendors or unlicensed pharmacies, as fake or expired injections are dangerous. This injection must be administered by a trained health professional — never attempt to inject yourself at home.
Do NOT mix ceftriaxone with calcium-containing solutions or drips (like Ringer's lactate) — this can form dangerous particles in the blood. Ceftriaxone may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives (birth control pills), so use additional protection. Blood thinners like warfarin may become stronger when used with ceftriaxone — your doctor should monitor you closely.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Ceftriaxone with your other drugs?
Ceftriaxone should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if your doctor decides the benefit is greater than the risk — always consult your doctor before use.
Store the unopened powder in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather is hot, so do not leave it in a car or near a window. Once mixed with water for injection, it should be used immediately or stored in a refrigerator and used within 24 hours. 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 Ceftriaxone?
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