Drugs & Vitamins

Active Ingredients: Ceftriaxone
Other Names: Rocephin
Drug Class: Cephalosporins
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are Rocephin? (Back to top)
CEFTRIAXONE is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It kills or stops the growth of some bacteria. It is used to treat infections of the skin, respiratory tract, sinuses, ear, and urinary tract. It will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• any chronic illness
• bowel disease, like colitis
• both kidney and liver disease
• high bilirubin level in newborn patients
• an unusual or allergic reaction to ceftriaxone, other cephalosporin or penicillin antibiotics, foods, dyes or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
This medicine is injected into a muscle or infused it into a vein. It is usually given in a medical office or clinic. If you are to give this medicine you will be taught how to inject it. Follow instructions carefully. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early even if you feel better. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)
Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

• calcium

• alcohol
• some other antibiotics
• warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• breathing problems
• fever, chills
• irregular heartbeat
• pain when passing urine
• seizures
• stomach pain, cramps
• unusual bleeding, bruising
• unusually weak or tired

• diarrhea
• dizzy, drowsy
• headache
• nausea, vomiting
• pain, swelling, irritation where injected
• stomach upset
• sweating

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

Do not treat diarrhea with over the counter products. Contact your doctor if you have diarrhea that lasts more than 2 days or if it is severe and watery.

If you are being treated for a sexually transmitted disease, avoid sexual contact until you have finished your treatment. Having sex can infect your sexual partner.

Calcium may bind to this medicine and cause lung or kidney problems. Avoid calcium products while taking this medicine and for 48 hours after taking the last dose of this medicine.

Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Protect from light. Throw away any unused vials after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Last Updated:July 17, 2007

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