Zosyn

TAZOBACTAM/PIPERACILLIN SODIUM - INJECTION (tay-zo-BACK-tum/pih-PAIR-uh-sillin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S):

Zosyn

USES:

This medication is an antibiotic used to treat various infections.

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION:

This medication is administered by slowly infusing it into a vein over thirty minutes. This is usually given every 6 to 8 hours at evenly spaced intervals around the clock to ensure a constant level of medication in your blood. Use this medication for the full time prescribed. Do not stop using this without your doctor's approval even if you feel better after a few days. Stopping therapy too soon may result in a reinfection.

SIDE EFFECTS:

Headache, dizziness, nausea, stomach upset, or loose stools may occur the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. You may experience pain or irritation at the injection site. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop:
a skin rash, itching, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chest pain, anxiety, breathing trouble; swelling of the hands or feet. Use caution driving or performing tasks requiring alertness if this medication makes you dizzy. Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in a secondary infection (e.g., oral, bladder or vaginal yeast infection). If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS:

Tell your doctor if you have: pre-existing kidney disease, cystic fibrosis, other illnesses, any allergies (especially to penicillin or other antibiotics). This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS:

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including:
antibiotics, birth control pills, "blood thinners", blood pressure medication. This drug may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. Discuss using other methods of birth control with your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE:

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include seizures.

NOTES:

When possible, the injection will be replaced by medication taken by mouth. Laboratory tests may be done periodically to monitor therapy if this medication is taken for a prolonged time.