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Brand name: Azactam TM

Active ingredients: aztreonam

What it is used for

INDICATIONS AS AT 23 MAY 1991: 1. Azactam is indicated for use as a single agent in the treatment of infections known or strongly suspected to be due to susceptible gram negative aerobes, such as urinary tract infection, gonorrhoea, etc. 2. In combination with other suitable antibiotics to treat serious infections due to problem organisms known or likely to be susceptible to aztreonam. Some patients with serious Pseudomonas infections may benefit from concurrent use of Azactam and an aminoglycoside because of synergistic action. However, this enhanced activity is not predictable. If such concurrent therapy is considered in patients with serious infections, susceptibility tests should be performed in vitro to determine the activity of the drugs in combination. Because of the potential nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity of aminoglycoside antibiotics, renal function should be monitored according to the aminoglycoside manufacturer's prescribing information, especially if high dosages of the aminoglycoside are to be used or if therapy is prolonged. 3. Meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae or Neisseria meningitidis. Azactam should not be used alone, but only in combination with other suitable antibiotics, in cases where meningitis is known or presumed to be due to the above organisms. Appropriate therapy should be instituted when results of sensitivity tests are known. Before instituting treatment with Azactam, appropriate specimens should be obtained for isolation of the causative organism(s) and for determination of susceptibility to aztreonam. Treatment with Azactam should normally be initiated on the basis of susceptibility tests, but it may be initiated in the above situations before the results of identification and sensitivity testing of the causative organism become available.

How to take it

The way to take this medicine is: Intramuscular. This medicine is given through a needle inserted into the muscle beneath the skin.

  • Store below 30 degrees Celsius
  • Shelf lifetime is 4 Years.

You should seek medical advice in relation to medicines and use only as directed by a healthcare professional.

Always read the label. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional.

Visual appearance

White to off-white, free flowing powder

Do I need a prescription?

This medicine is available from a pharmacist and requires a prescription. It is Schedule 4 : Prescription Only Medicine.

Pregnant or planning a pregnancy?

For the active ingredient aztreonam

You should seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist about taking this medicine. They can help you balance the risks and the benefits of this medicine during pregnancy.

Consumer Medicines Information (CMI)

For side effects, taking other medicines and more

Print the CMI.

Listen to the CMI.


Reporting side effects

You can help ensure medicines are safe by reporting the side effects you experience.

You can report side effects to your doctor, or directly at www.tga.gov.au/reporting-problems

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