Fortum Special Precautions

Before beginning treatment establish whether the patient has a history of hypersensitivity reactions to ceftazidime, cephalosporins, penicillins or other drugs.
Special care is indicated in patients who have experienced an allergic reaction to penicillins or other beta-lactams.
If an allergic reaction to Ceftazidime (Fortum) occurs discontinue the drug. Serious hypersensitivity reactions may require epinephrine (adrenaline), hydrocortisone, antihistamine or other emergency measures.
Concurrent treatment with high doses of cephalosporins and nephrotoxic drugs such as aminoglycosides or potent diuretics (e.g. furosemide) may adversely affect renal function. Clinical experience has shown that this is not likely to be a problem with Ceftazidime (Fortum) at the recommended dose levels. There is no evidence that Ceftazidime (Fortum) adversely affects renal function at normal therapeutic doses.
Ceftazidime is eliminated via the kidneys, therefore the dosage should be reduced according to the degree of renal impairment. Neurological sequelae have occasionally been reported when the dose has not been reduced in patients with renal impairment (see Renal Impairment under Dosage & Administration and Adverse Reactions).
As with other broad spectrum antibiotics, prolonged use may result in the overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms (e.g. Candida, enterococci) which may require interruption of treatment or appropriate measures. Repeated evaluation of the patient's condition is essential.
Pseudomembranous colitis has been reported with the use of antibiotics and may range in severity from mild to life-threatening. Therefore, it is important to consider its diagnosis in patients who develop diarrhoea during or after antibiotic use. If prolonged or significant diarrhoea occurs or the patient experiences abdominal cramps, treatment should be discontinued immediately and the patient investigated further.
As with other extended-spectrum cephalosporins and penicillins, some initially susceptible strains of Enterobacter spp. and Serratia spp. may develop resistance during Ceftazidime (Fortum) therapy. When clinically appropriate during therapy of such infections, periodic susceptibility testing should be considered.
Each 1 g of ceftazidime contains 52 mg of sodium. The sodium content must be taken into account in patients requiring sodium restriction.
Effects on Ability to Drive and Use Machines: None reported.