Cefazolin

First-generation cephalosporin for surgical prophylaxis, soft tissue infections, and gram-positive bacterial infections; ophthalmic formulation for corneal ulcers. First-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. Mechanism: binds penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) inhibiting bacterial cell wall peptidoglycan synthesis (bactericidal). Narrow spectrum — excellent gram-positive coverage (including Staph); limited gram-negative coverage. Widely used for surgical prophylaxis. Renally excreted; not metabolized. Key information Reconstitute with sterile water or NS. Refrigerate reconstituted solution; use within 10 days. IV infusion preferred over rapid bolus. Adequate hydration required. Cross-reactivity with penicillin allergy (rare, <1–2%).

IV: dilute in 0.9% NaCl or D5W; administer over 15–30 min. IM: reconstitute and inject deep IM — painful; dilute with lidocaine if needed. Used for perioperative prophylaxis: administer 30 min before incision. Store refrigerated (2–8°C); do not freeze. (reconstituted solution). If a dose is missed This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.

GI: vomiting, diarrhea (oral). Hypersensitivity: urticaria, pruritus, anaphylaxis (cross-reactive with penicillin ~5–10%). Pain at IM injection site. Phlebitis (IV). Renal: minimal nephrotoxicity at recommended doses.

For animals Avoid in patients with known cephalosporin hypersensitivity; use caution in penicillin-allergic patients (cross-reactivity ~5–10%). {RENAL} — dose-reduce in severe renal impairment. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Cephalosporin — inform your doctor if you have penicillin or cephalosporin allergy. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling.

Contact your veterinarian. Injectable cephalosporin overdose causes GI signs and rarely seizures at very high doses.