Description

Zosyn (Piperacillin and Tazobactam): Uses, Benefits & Safety Information

Keyword: Zosyn

Zosyn is a prescription antibiotic that includes piperacillin and tazobactam. It’s in a class of antibacterial drugs called penicillins and is given by IV injection. It is used to treat certain serious bacterial infections, especially where broad antibacterial coverage is needed.

Importantly, Zosyn will not treat viral infections such as the common cold or flu. Healthcare professionals therefore turn to it when bacterial infection is proven or strongly suspected. Using the correct antibiotic also helps slow the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

What Is Zosyn Used For?

Zosyn can be used for many types of bacterial infections. The current label includes some intra-abdominal infections and nosocomial pneumonia as well as some infections of the skin and skin structure, female pelvic infections, and community-acquired pneumonia in adults.

This antibiotic may be used by doctors for infections caused by bacteria that produce beta-lactamase enzymes. Piperacillin kills susceptible bacteria, and tazobactam protects piperacillin from some beta-lactamase enzymes. This combination may therefore be active against a wider range of susceptible organisms than piperacillin alone.

How Zosyn Works

Piperacillin is a penicillin class antibacterial drug that works by interfering with the formation of the bacterial cell wall. Tazobactam is a beta lactamase inhibitor. In layman’s terms, tazobactam can prevent some bacterial enzymes from breaking down piperacillin. The drugs can work together to fight susceptible bacterial infections.

Zosyn is given by injection into a vein. Frequency and duration of treatment depends on the infection, age and health of the patient, kidney function, and response to treatment. The health care provider determines the appropriate regimen.

Zosyn Common Side Effects

Zosyn can cause side effects like other antibiotics. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, upset stomach, headache, fever and trouble sleeping. Not every patient will get these side effects. Most patients complete treatment without any serious problems.

However, some reactions need to be treated immediately. Severe allergic reactions can cause hives, itching, wheezing or difficulty breathing or swallowing. Severe or persistent watery and bloody diarrhoea that occurs during or after treatment with antibiotics may occur and should be reported to your doctor.

Zosyn Precautions

Before you are given Zosyn, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergy to penicillins, cephalosporins, or any other medicines. Please provide a complete list of all prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, vitamins and supplements that you are taking as some treatments may need to be monitored or adjusted.

Renal function is especially important. Patients with kidney disease may require dose adjustment and more frequent monitoring. You may also have blood tests during treatment to see how your body is reacting and to see if you have any side effects.

Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. People with cystic fibrosis should also tell their doctor before starting treatment.

Antibiotic Resistance and Zosyn

We need to use antibiotics responsibly. Use Zosyn only if you have appropriate data or strong suspicion of bacterial infection. And taking antibiotics when they are not needed can lead to resistant bacteria developing, which makes it harder to treat infections in the future.

Patients must take Zosyn exactly as directed by their healthcare professional . Patients should not share antibiotics with other people . Never use leftover antibiotics for a new illness without first checking with a doctor.

Questions and answers about Zosyn®

What does Zosyn do?

Zosyn is a combination antibiotic ( piperacillin + tazobactam ) . It is given by injection into a vein for some bacterial infections.

Does Zosyn cure viral infections?

No Zosyn is an antibiotic and does not treat viral infections such as the flu or common cold.

How is Zosyn administered?

Zosyn is administered via IV . The healthcare professional determines the treatment schedule and duration based on the infection and the patient’s medical needs.

Can Zosyn cause an allergic reaction?

Yes. Serious allergic reactions can occur, especially in patients with a history of allergy to beta-lactam antibiotics. If you develop breathing problems, wheezing, hives, or swelling, get medical attention right away.

## Is Zosyn Right for Everyone?

There is no medicine that is for everybody. Doctors consider allergies, kidney function, other medicines, age, pregnancy or breastfeeding status, and type of infection before giving Zosyn.

Final thought

Zosyn is an important prescription antibiotic for some serious bacterial infections. It contains piperacillin and tazobactam and has antibacterial activity against susceptible organisms. Tazobactam helps protect piperacillin from certain bacterial beta-lactamase enzymes.