1.1 Respiratory Tract Infections

Cefazolin injection is indicated for the treatment of respiratory tract infections due to Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes in adults and pediatric patients for whom appropriate dosing with this formulation can be achieved [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2, 2.4 and 2.5) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].

Limitations of Use

Injectable benzathine penicillin is considered the drug of choice in treatment and prevention of streptococcal infections, including the prophylaxis of rheumatic fever.

Cefazolin injection is effective in the eradication of streptococci from the nasopharynx; however, data establishing the efficacy of cefazolin in the subsequent prevention of rheumatic fever are not available.

1.2 Urinary Tract Infections

Cefazolin injection is indicated for the treatment of urinary tract infections due to Escherichia coli, and Proteus mirabilis in adults and pediatric patients for whom appropriate dosing with this formulation can be achieved [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2, 2.4 and 2.5) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].

1.3 Skin and Skin Structure Infections

Cefazolin injection is indicated for the treatment of skin and skin structure infections due to S. aureus, S. pyogenes, and Streptococcus agalactiae in adults and pediatric patients for whom appropriate dosing with this formulation can be achieved [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2, 2.4 and 2.5) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].

1.4 Biliary Tract Infections

Cefazolin injection is indicated for the treatment of biliary infections due to E. coli, various isolates of streptococci, P. mirabilis, and S. aureus in adults and pediatric patients for whom appropriate dosing with this formulation can be achieved [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2, 2.4 and 2.5) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].

1.5 Bone and Joint Infections

Cefazolin injection is indicated for the treatment of bone and joint infections due to S. aureus in adults and pediatric patients for whom appropriate dosing with this formulation can be achieved [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2, 2.4 and 2.5) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].

1.6 Genital Infections

Cefazolin injection is indicated for the treatment of genital infections due to E. coli, and P. mirabilis in adults and pediatric patients for whom appropriate dosing with this formulation can be achieved [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2, 2.4 and 2.5) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].

1.7 Septicemia

Cefazolin injection is indicated for the treatment of septicemia due to S. pneumoniae, S. aureus, P. mirabilis, and E. coli in adults and pediatric patients for whom appropriate dosing with this formulation can be achieved [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2, 2.4 and 2.5) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].

1.8 Endocarditis

Cefazolin injection is indicated for the treatment of endocarditis due to S. aureus and S. pyogenes in adults and pediatric patients for whom appropriate dosing with this formulation can be achieved [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2, 2.4 and 2.5) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].

1.9 Perioperative Prophylaxis

Cefazolin injection is indicated is indicated for perioperative prophylaxis in adults for whom appropriate dosing with this formulation can be achieved [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5).

The perioperative use of cefazolin injection is indicated in adult surgical patients in whom infection at the operative site would present a serious risk (e.g., during open-heart surgery and prosthetic arthroplasty).

The prophylactic administration of cefazolin injection preoperatively, intraoperatively, and postoperatively may reduce the incidence of certain postoperative infections in patients undergoing surgical procedures which are classified as contaminated or potentially contaminated (e.g., vaginal hysterectomy, and cholecystectomy in high-risk patients such as those older than 70 years, with acute cholecystitis, obstructive jaundice, or common duct bile stones).

Additional pediatric use information is approved for B. Braun Medical Inc.'s CEFAZOLIN FOR INJECTION AND DEXTROSE INJECTION. However, due to B. Braun Medical Inc.'s marketing exclusivity rights, this drug product is not labeled with that information.

1.10 Usage

To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of cefazolin injection and other antibacterial drugs, cefazolin injection should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.

2.1 Important Administration Instructions

If a dose of cefazolin injection is required that does not equal 1 gram or 2 grams, this product is not recommended for use and as an alternative formulation of cefazolin should be considered.

Administer cefazolin injection intravenously over approximately 30 minutes.

2.2 Dosage for the Treatment of Infections

Dosage for the Treatment of Infections in Adults with Creatinine Clearance (CLcr) Equal to 55 mL/min or Greater

The recommended adult dosages for the treatment of infections [see Indications and Usage (1.1 to 1.8)] are outlined in Table 1 below. Administer cefazolin injection intravenously over approximately 30 minutes.

Dosage for the Treatment of Infections in Pediatric Patients with CLcr Equal to 70 mL/min or Greater

The recommended pediatric dosages for the treatment of infections [see Indications and Usage (1.1 to 1.8)] are outlined in Table 2 below. Administer cefazolin injection intravenously over approximately 30 minutes.

If a dose of cefazolin injection is required that does not equal 1 gram or 2 grams, this product is not recommended for use and an alternative formulation of cefazolin should be considered [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].

2.3 Dosage for Perioperative Prophylaxis

 

Dosage for Perioperative Prophylaxis in Adults with CLcr Equal to 55 mL/min or Greater

 

To prevent postoperative infection in contaminated or potentially contaminated surgery, recommended dosages are described in Table 3 below.

 

If a dose of cefazolin injection is required that does not equal 1 gram or 2 grams, this product is not recommended and an alternative formulation of cefazolin should be considered.

 

It is important that (i) the preoperative dose be given just prior (1/2 hour to 1 hour) to the start of surgery so that adequate antibacterial concentrations are present in the serum and tissues at the time of initial surgical incision; and (ii) cefazolin be administered, if necessary, at appropriate intervals during surgery to provide sufficient concentrations of the antibacterial drug at the anticipated moments of greatest exposure to infective organisms.

 

The perioperative prophylactic administration of cefazolin should usually be discontinued within a 24-hour period after the surgical procedure. In surgery where the occurrence of infection may be particularly devastating (e.g., open-heart surgery and prosthetic arthroplasty), the prophylactic administration of cefazolin may be continued for 3 to 5 days following the completion of surgery.

 

Additional pediatric use information is approved for B. Braun Medical Inc.'s CEFAZOLIN FOR INJECTION AND DEXTROSE INJECTION. However, due to B. Braun Medical Inc.'s marketing exclusivity rights, this drug product is not labeled with that information.

2.4 Dosage Recommendations in Adult and Pediatric Patients with Renal Impairment

 

Dosage Recommendations in Adult Patients with CLcr less than 55 mL/min

 

The dosage recommendation for cefazolin injection in adult patients with renal impairment (CLcr less than 55 mL/min) is outlined in Table 5 below.

Dosage Recommendations in Pediatric Patients with CLcr less than 70 mL/min

 

The dosage recommendation for cefazolin injection in pediatric patients with renal impairment (CLcr less than 70 mL/min) is outlined in Table 6 below.

*If a dose of cefazolin injection is required that does not equal 1 gram or 2 grams, this product is not recommended for use and an alternative formulation of cefazolin should be considered.

2.5 Preparation for Use of Cefazolin Injection

Thawing of Plastic Container

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Thaw frozen container at room temperature 20-25°C (68 - 77°F) or under refrigeration 2-8°C (36 - 46°F). Product should not be thawed by immersion in water baths or by microwave irradiation. Do not force thaw.

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No further dilution is necessary.

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Check for minute leaks by squeezing container firmly. If leaks are detected, discard solution as sterility may be impaired.

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Do not add supplementary medication.

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The container should be visually inspected. If the outlet port protector is damaged, detached, or not present, discard container as solution path sterility may be impaired. Components of the solution may precipitate in the frozen state and will dissolve upon reaching room temperature with little or no agitation. Potency is not affected. Agitate after solution has reached room temperature. If after visual inspection the solution remains cloudy or if an insoluble precipitate is noted or if any seals are not intact, the container should be discarded.

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The thawed solution is stable for 30 days under refrigeration (5°C/41°F) or 48 hours at 25°C/77°F. Do not refreeze thawed antibacterial drugs.

Preparation for Administration

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Suspend container from support.

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Remove protector from outlet port at bottom of container.

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Attach Intravenous administration set to outlet port. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions accompanying the administration set for complete directions.

4.1 Hypersensitivity to Cefazolin or the Cephalosporin Class of Antibacterial Drugs, Penicillins, or Other Beta-lactams

Cefazolin injection is contraindicated in patients who have a history of immediate hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, serious skin reactions) to cefazolin or the cephalosporin class of antibacterial drugs, penicillins, or other beta-lactams [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

5.1 Hypersensitivity Reactions to Cefazolin, Cephalosporins, Penicillins, or Other Beta-lactams

Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity (anaphylactic) reactions have been reported in patients receiving beta-lactam antibacterial drugs. Before therapy with cefazolin injection is instituted, careful inquiry should be made to determine whether the patient has had previous immediate hypersensitivity reactions to cefazolin, cephalosporins, penicillins, or carbapenems. Exercise caution if this product is to be given to penicillin-sensitive patients because cross-hypersensitivity among beta-lactam antibacterial drugs has been clearly documented and may occur in up to 10% of patients with a history of penicillin allergy. If an allergic reaction to cefazolin injection occurs, discontinue the drug.

5.2 Seizures in Patients with Renal Impairment

Seizures may occur with the administration of cefazolin injection, particularly in patients with renal impairment when the dosage is not reduced appropriately. Discontinue cefazolin injection if seizures occur or make appropriate dosage adjustments in patients with renal impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)]. Anticonvulsant therapy should be continued in patients with known seizure disorders.

5.3 Clostridioides difficile-associated Diarrhea

Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including cefazolin, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.

C. difficile produces toxins A and B, which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin-producing isolates of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibacterial drug use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.

If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial drug use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibacterial drug treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.

5.4 Hypersensitivity to Dextrose-containing Products

Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported with administration of dextrose- containing products. These reactions have been reported in patients receiving high concentrations of dextrose (i.e. 50% dextrose)1. The reactions have also been reported when corn-derived dextrose solutions were administered to patients with or without a history of hypersensitivity to corn products.2

5.5 Risk of Development of Drug-resistant Bacteria

Prescribing cefazolin injection in the absence of proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria.

As with other antimicrobials, prolonged use of cefazolin injection may result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible microorganisms. Repeated evaluation of the patient's condition is essential. Should superinfection occur during therapy, appropriate measures should be taken.

5.6 Drug/Laboratory Test Interactions

Urinary Glucose

The administration of cefazolin may result in a false-positive reaction with glucose in the urine when using glucose tests based on Benedict’s copper reduction reaction that determine the amount of reducing substances like glucose in the urine. It is recommended that glucose tests based on enzymatic glucose oxidase be used.

Coombs’ Test

Positive direct Coombs' tests have been reported during treatment with cefazolin. In hematologic studies or in transfusion cross-matching procedures when antiglobulin tests are performed on the minor side or in Coombs' testing of newborns whose mothers have received cephalosporin antibacterial drugs before parturition, it should be recognized that a positive Coombs' test may be due to the drug.

5.7 Patients with Overt or Known Subclinical Diabetes Mellitus or Carbohydrate Intolerance

As with other dextrose-containing solutions, cefazolin injection should be prescribed with caution in patients with overt or known subclinical diabetes mellitus or carbohydrate intolerance for any reason.

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

The following adverse reactions were reported from clinical trials:

Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, oral candidiasis (oral thrush), mouth ulcers, vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps, epigastric pain, heartburn, flatus, anorexia and pseudomembranous colitis. Onset of pseudomembranous colitis symptoms may occur during or after antibacterial treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

Allergic: Anaphylaxis, eosinophilia, urticaria, itching, drug fever, skin rash, Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

Hematologic: Neutropenia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocythemia.

Hepatic: Transient rise in SGOT, SGPT, and alkaline phosphatase levels has been observed. Reports of hepatitis have been received.

Renal: Reports of increased BUN and creatinine levels, as well as renal failure, have been received.

Local Reactions: Instances of phlebitis have been reported at site of injection. Some induration has occurred.

Other Reactions: Pruritus (including genital, vulvar and anal pruritus, genital moniliasis, and vaginitis). Dizziness, fainting, lightheadedness, confusion, weakness, tiredness, hypotension, somnolence and headache.

Additional pediatric use information is approved for B. Braun Medical Inc.'s CEFAZOLIN FOR INJECTION AND DEXTROSE INJECTION. However, due to B. Braun Medical Inc.'s marketing exclusivity rights, this drug product is not labeled with that information.

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of cefazolin. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

Immune system disorders: Serum sickness-like reaction

Renal and urinary disorders: Acute tubulointerstitial nephritis (ATIN)

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP)

6.3 Cephalosporin-class Adverse Reactions

In addition to the adverse reactions listed above that have been observed in patients treated with cefazolin, the following adverse reactions and altered laboratory tests have been reported for cephalosporin-class antibacterials:

Stevens-Johnson syndrome, erythema multiforme, toxic epidermal necrolysis, renal impairment, toxic nephropathy, aplastic anemia, hemolytic anemia, hemorrhage, hepatic impairment including cholestasis, and pancytopenia.

8.1 Pregnancy

Risk Summary
Available data from published prospective cohort studies, case series and case reports over several decades with cephalosporin use, including cefazolin, in pregnant women have not established a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Cefazolin crosses the placenta.

Animal reproduction studies with rats, mice and rabbits administered cefazolin during organogenesis at doses 1 to 3 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) did not demonstrate adverse developmental outcomes. In rats subcutaneously administered cefazolin prior to delivery and throughout lactation, there were no adverse effects on offspring at a dose approximately 2 times the MRHD (see Data).

The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.

Data
Human Data

While available studies cannot definitively establish the absence of risk, published data from case-control studies and case reports over several decades have not identified an association with cephalosporin use during pregnancy and major birth defects, miscarriage, or other adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Available studies have methodologic limitations, including small sample size, retrospective data collection, and inconsistent comparator groups.

Animal Data

Reproduction studies have been performed in rats, mice and rabbits administered cefazolin during organogenesis at doses of 2000, 4000 and 240 mg/kg/day (approximately 1 to 3 times the maximum recommended human dose on a body surface area comparison). There was no evidence of any adverse effects on embryofetal development due to cefazolin. In a peri‑ postnatal study in rats, cefazolin administered subcutaneously up to 1200 mg/kg/day (approximately 2 times the MRHD based on body surface area comparison) to pregnant dams prior to delivery and through lactation caused no adverse effects on offspring.

8.2 Lactation

Risk Summary
Data from published literature report that cefazolin is present in human milk, but is not expected to accumulate in a breastfed infant. There are no data on the effects of cefazolin on the breastfed child or on milk production.

The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for cefazolin injection and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from cefazolin injection or from the mother’s underlying condition.

8.4 Pediatric Use

Cefazolin injection is indicated for the treatment of respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin and skin structure infections, biliary tract infections, bone and joint infections, genital infections, septicemia, and endocarditis in pediatric patients for whom appropriate dosing with this formulation can be achieved [see Indications and Usage (1.1 to 1.8)].

Safety and effectiveness of cefazolin injection in premature infants and neonates have not been established and is not recommended for use in this age group of pediatric patients. Dosing for cefazolin in pediatric patients younger than one month old has not been established.

Because of the limitations of the available strengths and administration requirements (i.e., administration of fractional doses is not recommended) of cefazolin injection, and to avoid unintentional overdose, this product is not recommended for use if a dose of cefazolin injection that does not equal 1 gram or 2 grams is required and an alternative formulation of cefazolin should be considered [see Dosage and Administration (2.2, 2,3, 2.4 and 2.5)].

The safety and effectiveness of cefazolin injection for perioperative prophylaxis have not been established in pediatric patients younger than 10 years old.

Additional pediatric use information is approved for B. Braun Medical Inc.'s CEFAZOLIN FOR INJECTION AND DEXTROSE INJECTION. However, due to B. Braun Medical Inc.'s marketing exclusivity rights, this drug product is not labeled with that information.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Of the 920 subjects who received cefazolin in clinical studies, 313 (34%) were 65 years and over, while 138 (15%) were 75 years and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.

This drug is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of toxic reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

8.6 Patients with Renal Impairment

When cefazolin injection is administered to adult and pediatric patients with low urinary output because of impaired renal function (creatinine clearance less than 55 mL/min and 70 mL/min for adults and pediatric patients, respectively), lower daily dosage is required [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)and Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

12.1 Mechanism of Action

Cefazolin is an antibacterial drug [see Microbiology (12.4)].

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationship for cefazolin has not been evaluated in patients.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Studies have shown that following intravenous administration of cefazolin to normal volunteers, mean serum concentrations peaked at approximately 185 mcg/mL and were approximately 4 mcg/mL at 8 hours for a 1 gram dose.

The serum half-life for cefazolin is approximately 1.8 hours following IV administration.

In a study of constant intravenous infusion with dosages of 3.5 mg/kg for 1 hour (approximately 250 mg) and 1.5 mg/kg the next 2 hours (approximately 100 mg), cefazolin serum concentrations at the third hour of approximately 28 mcg/mL.

Plasma pharmacokinetic parameters of cefazolin in healthy volunteers (N=12) following a single 15- minute IV infusion of 2 grams of cefazolin injection are summarized in Table 7.

N= number of subjects observed; Cmax = maximum plasma concentration; Tmax = time to maximum plasma concentration; AUC0-inf = area under the plasma concentration-time curve extrapolated to infinity; t1/2 = apparent plasma terminal elimination half-life; CL = total clearance; Vz = volume of distribution

Studies in patients hospitalized with infections indicate that cefazolin produces mean peak serum concentrations approximately equivalent to those seen in healthy volunteers.

Bile concentrations in patients without obstructive biliary disease can reach or exceed serum concentrations by up to five times; however, in patients with obstructive biliary disease, bile concentrations of cefazolin are considerably lower than serum concentrations (less than 1.0 mcg/mL).

In synovial fluid, the cefazolin concentration becomes comparable to that reached in serum at about 4 hours after drug administration.

Studies of cord blood show prompt transfer of cefazolin across the placenta. Cefazolin is present in very low concentrations in the milk of nursing mothers.

Cefazolin is excreted unchanged in the urine. In the first 6 hours approximately 60% of the drug is excreted in the urine and this increases to 70% to 80% within 24 hours.

Additional pediatric use information is approved for B. Braun Medical Inc.'s CEFAZOLIN FOR INJECTION AND DEXTROSE INJECTION. However, due to B. Braun Medical Inc.'s marketing exclusivity rights, this drug product is not labeled with that information.

12.4 Microbiology

Mechanism of Action

Cefazolin is a bactericidal agent that acts by inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis.

Resistance

Predominant mechanisms of bacterial resistance to cephalosporins include the presence of extended- spectrum beta-lactamases and enzymatic hydrolysis.

Antimicrobial Activity

Cefazolin has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections as described in the INDICATIONS AND USAGE (1) section.

 

Gram-Positive Bacteria

 

Staphylococcus aureus

 

Staphylococcus epidermidis

 

Streptococcus agalactiae

 

Streptococcus pneumoniae

 

Streptococcus pyogenes

Methicillin-resistant staphylococci are uniformly resistant to cefazolin.

 

Gram-Negative Bacteria

 

Escherichia coli

 

Proteus mirabilis

Most isolates of indole positive Proteus (Proteus vulgaris), Enterobacter spp., Morganella morganii, Providencia rettgeri, Serratia spp., and Pseudomonas spp. are resistant to cefazolin.

Susceptibility Testing

For specific information regarding susceptibility test interpretive criteria, and associated test methods and quality control standards recognized by FDA for this drug, please see: http://www.fda.gov/STIC.

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Carcinogenicity and Mutagenesis

Mutagenicity studies and long-term studies in animals to determine the carcinogenic potential of cefazolin injection have not been performed.

Impairment of Fertility

Fertility studies conducted in rats subcutaneously administered cefazolin at doses of

2000 mg/kg/day (approximately 3 times the maximum recommended human dose based on body surface area comparison) showed no impairment of mating and fertility.