Piperacillin/tazobactam

Definition

Piperacillin/tazobactam is a combination antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections by inhibiting cell wall synthesis and beta-lactamase enzymes. It is especially effective against Gram-negative bacteria and is commonly used in severe infections.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Piperacillin/tazobactam is a broad-spectrum antibiotic effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
2. The combination includes piperacillin, a penicillin-class antibiotic, and tazobactam, a beta-lactamase inhibitor.
3. It is often administered intravenously for systemic infections like sepsis and intra-abdominal infections.
4. Piperacillin/tazobactam can cause side effects such as allergic reactions, gastrointestinal disturbances, and elevated liver enzymes.
5. Resistance to piperacillin/tazobactam can develop through the production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) by bacteria.

Review Questions

• What are the two components of piperacillin/tazobactam and their respective roles?
• Which type of bacteria is piperacillin/tazobactam particularly effective against?
• What are common side effects associated with the use of piperacillin/tazobactam?

Related terms

Penicillin:

A group of antibiotics derived from Penicillium fungi that are used to treat bacterial infections.

Beta-lactamase Inhibitor: Compounds that block beta-lactamase enzymes produced by bacteria to resist beta-lactam antibiotics.

Sepsis:

A life-threatening condition caused by the body's response to infection leading to tissue damage, organ failure, or death.