Key facts about Avycaz
What is Avycaz?
Avycaz is the brand name for ceftazidime and avibactam and is available as an intravenous infusion.
What dosages is Avycaz available in?
Avycaz is available in single-dose vials containing ceftazidime 2 grams (equivalent to 2.635 grams of ceftazidime pentahydrate/sodium carbonate powder) and avibactam 0.5 grams (equivalent to 0.551 grams of avibactam sodium).
What is Avycaz used for?
Avycaz is an antibiotic that is used to treat certain stomach infections when used together with metronidazole (Flagyl), complicated urinary tract infections, and pneumonia from the hospital or a ventilator.
How does Avycaz work?
Avycaz is a combination of ceftazidime, a cephalosporin, and avibactam, a beta-lactamase inhibitor. Ceftazidime kills bacteria by preventing them from making cell walls to protect themselves. Avibactam protects ceftazidime from being broken down to help it work better.
How do I take Avycaz?
Avycaz is given as an IV infusion over 2 hours. You will typically receive this infusion every 8 hours for 5 to 14 days.
Is it safe for me to take Avycaz?
Avycaz is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you have a known serious hypersensitivity to ceftazidime, avibactam, or other members of the cephalosporin class.
Avycaz Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Avycaz:
- Injection site reactions
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Rash
Avycaz Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Avycaz. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Allergic reaction
- Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD)
- CNS reactions like seizures, involuntary, brief muscle twitching or jerking, and coma
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Avycaz
The following medications may interact with Avycaz:
- Probenecid
Who makes Avycaz?
Allergan
Is Avycaz safe in pregnancy?
It is not known whether this medication is safe for you and your unborn baby during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have plans on becoming pregnant. They will recommend what is best for you.
