Bacteria
Medications
Related eMedTV
Health Channels

Ceftriaxone

Ceftriaxone treats numerous common bacterial infections by preventing bacteria from building and maintaining their cell walls. It is a prescription antibiotic given as a shot or through an intravenous line (IV). A few of the infections that can be treated with ceftriaxone include meningitis, middle ear infections (otitis media), and respiratory tract infections. Common side effects of ceftriaxone include diarrhea; unexplained rash; and pain, warmth, and/or minor swelling at the injection site.

 

What Is Ceftriaxone?

Ceftriaxone is a prescription antibiotic that is licensed to treat a number of common infections. It is part of a class of antibiotics called cephalosporins, and it is given either as a shot or through an intravenous line (IV). Ceftriaxone is sold under the brand name Rocephin®. It is also available as a generic.
 

What Is Ceftriaxone Used For?

Some examples of infections that ceftriaxone is used to treat include:
 
Ceftriaxone is also used before surgery to decrease the chances of an infection.
 
(See Ceftriaxone Uses for other infections that ceftriaxone is used to treat.)
 

How Does Ceftriaxone Work?

Ceftriaxone is part of a class of drugs called cephalosporins. It prevents bacteria's ability to make and maintain their cell wall. Without a cell wall, bacteria are vulnerable and ultimately perish.
 
Examples of other medicines in this class include Omnicef® (cefdinir) and Keflex® (cephalexin).
 
(Ceftriaxone Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;