Ceftriaxone: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan

Ceftriaxone is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic given by injection into a vein or a muscle. It is normally used in hospitals and clinics, or under a doctor’s supervision, for serious infections or when tablets are not suitable.

What is Ceftriaxone used for?

  • Pneumonia and other serious chest infections
  • Meningitis
  • Blood infections (sepsis)
  • Complicated urinary tract and kidney infections
  • Bone, joint, skin and abdominal infections
  • Gonorrhoea
  • Preventing infection around certain surgical operations

Common side effects of Ceftriaxone

Not everyone gets side effects. Those reported more often include:

  • Pain, swelling or hardness where the injection is given
  • Diarrhoea
  • Skin rash
  • Changes in blood tests, such as liver enzymes or blood counts

Tell a doctor straight away about severe or bloody diarrhoea, yellowing of the skin or eyes, severe stomach pain, or signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing or a widespread rash.

Precautions before using Ceftriaxone

  • Tell the doctor about any previous allergy to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics.
  • In newborn babies, ceftriaxone must not be given with calcium-containing drips.
  • Tell the doctor if you have liver, kidney or gallbladder problems.
  • It should only be given by a trained healthcare professional.
  • Tell the doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Ceftriaxone and XDR typhoid

XDR typhoid strains found in Pakistan are resistant to ceftriaxone. Typhoid treatment should therefore be decided by a doctor, ideally with the help of a blood culture report.

Frequently asked questions about Ceftriaxone

Can ceftriaxone injections be given at home?

Only by a trained healthcare professional, such as a nurse following a doctor’s prescription, because of the risk of allergic reactions and the need for correct preparation.

Ceftriaxone brands and prices in Pakistan

Medimart lists 330+ products containing Ceftriaxone from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order with cash on delivery.

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Medical disclaimer: This page is for general information only and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. Do not start, stop or change any medicine, or its dose, without speaking to a qualified healthcare professional.