Ceftolozane with tazobactam

How it works

Ceftolozane is a beta-lactam that inhibits cell-wall synthesis via penicillin-binding proteins, while tazobactam inhibits many beta-lactamases, extending activity against resistant Gram-negative bacteria including Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Prescribing in practice

• Avoid in patients with a history of immediate hypersensitivity to penicillins, other beta-lactams or beta-lactamase inhibitors because of the risk of cross-reactivity.
• For complicated intra-abdominal infection it is combined with metronidazole to provide anaerobic cover.
• Dose adjustment is required in renal impairment, in line with the SPC.

Monitoring

Monitor renal function closely, as effectiveness has been linked to appropriate dosing in patients with changing renal function, alongside clinical response.

Counselling the patient

• This antibiotic is given by infusion under clinical supervision.
• Report any rash, swelling, breathing difficulty, or severe or persistent diarrhoea.

Evidence & guidelines

Efficacy was established in the ASPECT trial programme for complicated urinary and intra-abdominal infections and in hospital-acquired pneumonia studies.