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Antibiotic (Extended-Spectrum Penicillin + Beta-Lactamase Inhibitor)

Piperacillin-Tazobactam

Brand names: Tazocin

Used in: Sepsis

Piperacillin-tazobactam is a broad-spectrum antibacterial combining an antipseudomonal penicillin with a beta-lactamase inhibitor, used for serious and hospital-acquired infections.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

Piperacillin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding penicillin-binding proteins, while tazobactam inhibits many beta-lactamases, protecting piperacillin from degradation.

Prescribing in practice

  • It is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe penicillin or beta-lactam hypersensitivity owing to the risk of anaphylaxis.
  • Dose adjustment is required in renal impairment; consult current prescribing references for the appropriate regimen.
  • Prolonged or repeated courses carry a risk of Clostridioides difficile infection and other secondary infections.

Monitoring

Monitor renal function and, during prolonged therapy, full blood count and electrolytes, alongside clinical response.

Counselling the patient

  • Report any rash, swelling, breathing difficulty or severe diarrhoea promptly.
  • Tell the team about any previous reaction to penicillin or other antibiotics.

Evidence & guidelines

Piperacillin-tazobactam is a recommended empirical option for several serious infections in NICE antimicrobial guidance, used in line with local microbiology policy.

Reference: MERINO trial (JAMA 2018); PHE Guidelines; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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