Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi (Ceftriaxone)

Third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic for serious bacterial infections

Rx – Prescription Only Cephalosporin Antibiotic
Active Ingredient
Ceftriaxone sodium
Available Form
Powder for IV infusion
Strength
2 g per vial
Manufacturer
Fresenius Kabi
Medically reviewed | Last reviewed: | Evidence level: 1A
Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi contains ceftriaxone, a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic widely used worldwide for the treatment of serious bacterial infections. Administered by intravenous infusion or injection, ceftriaxone is effective against a broad range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It is listed on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines and is a cornerstone of empirical antibiotic therapy in hospitals globally.
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Written and reviewed by iMedic Medical Editorial Team | Specialists in infectious diseases

Quick Facts About Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi

Active Ingredient
Ceftriaxone
Ceftriaxone sodium
Drug Class
Cephalosporin
3rd generation
Common Uses
Infections
Meningitis, pneumonia, sepsis
Available Form
IV / IM
Powder for infusion
Prescription Status
Rx Only
Hospital-administered
WHO Status
Essential
WHO Essential Medicine

Key Takeaways About Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi

  • Broad-spectrum antibiotic: Ceftriaxone is effective against many Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, making it a first-line choice for empirical treatment of serious infections
  • Once-daily dosing: Its long half-life of 6–9 hours allows convenient once-daily administration, improving treatment adherence and reducing nursing workload
  • Never mix with calcium: Ceftriaxone must never be mixed with or administered simultaneously with calcium-containing IV solutions due to the risk of potentially fatal precipitate formation
  • Allergy caution: Patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics may be at increased risk of cross-reactivity
  • Hospital setting: This formulation is prepared and given by healthcare professionals in clinical settings — it is not a self-administered medication

What Is Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi and What Is It Used For?

Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic containing ceftriaxone. It is given by intravenous or intramuscular injection to treat a wide range of serious bacterial infections in adults and children, including meningitis, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, sepsis, and Lyme disease.

Ceftriaxone belongs to a group of antibiotics called cephalosporins, which are part of the broader family of beta-lactam antibiotics. These drugs work by interfering with the construction of bacterial cell walls, a structure essential for bacterial survival. Without a functional cell wall, bacteria cannot maintain their internal pressure and ultimately burst and die. This mechanism makes ceftriaxone bactericidal, meaning it actively kills bacteria rather than simply inhibiting their growth.

The drug was first introduced in clinical practice in the 1980s and has since become one of the most widely prescribed injectable antibiotics worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) includes ceftriaxone on its Model List of Essential Medicines, recognizing its critical importance in treating life-threatening infections. It is classified as a Watch group antibiotic under the WHO AWaRe classification, meaning it should be used judiciously to preserve its effectiveness against resistant bacteria.

Ceftriaxone has an unusually long plasma half-life compared to other cephalosporins, approximately 6 to 9 hours in adults and even longer in neonates. This pharmacokinetic advantage allows once-daily dosing for most indications, which simplifies treatment regimens and reduces the burden on patients and healthcare systems. The drug achieves therapeutic concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid, making it particularly valuable for treating central nervous system infections such as bacterial meningitis.

Approved Indications

Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi is approved for the treatment of the following infections when caused by susceptible organisms:

  • Bacterial meningitis: Infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, one of the most critical indications for ceftriaxone
  • Community-acquired pneumonia: Lower respiratory tract infections including hospital-acquired cases requiring parenteral therapy
  • Acute otitis media: Middle ear infections, particularly in children when oral antibiotics have failed
  • Intra-abdominal infections: Including peritonitis and biliary tract infections, often in combination with anaerobic coverage
  • Urinary tract infections: Including complicated pyelonephritis (kidney infections)
  • Bone and joint infections: Osteomyelitis and septic arthritis caused by susceptible bacteria
  • Skin and soft tissue infections: Including complicated wound infections and cellulitis requiring IV therapy
  • Bloodstream infections (sepsis): Life-threatening systemic infections
  • Endocarditis: Infection of the heart valves, typically requiring prolonged treatment
  • Gonorrhea: Uncomplicated gonococcal infections, a key use given rising antimicrobial resistance
  • Syphilis: Treponema pallidum infections when penicillin cannot be used
  • Lyme disease: Neuroborreliosis and late-stage Lyme disease caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, in adults and children from 15 days of age
  • Febrile neutropenia: Empirical therapy in patients with low white blood cell counts and fever suspected to be caused by a bacterial infection
  • Surgical prophylaxis: Prevention of post-operative infections, administered 30–90 minutes before the surgical procedure
Antimicrobial Stewardship:

Ceftriaxone is a powerful broad-spectrum antibiotic. To help prevent the development of antimicrobial resistance, it should only be used when prescribed by a healthcare professional and for the full duration of the prescribed course. Incomplete treatment courses contribute to the global problem of antibiotic resistance, which the WHO considers one of the greatest threats to public health.

What Should You Know Before Taking Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi?

Do not use ceftriaxone if you have had a severe allergic reaction to cephalosporins, penicillins, or carbapenems. It must not be given to premature neonates or newborns with jaundice or who require calcium-containing IV solutions. Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and medications before treatment.

Before you receive ceftriaxone, your healthcare provider needs to be aware of your complete medical history, current medications, and any allergies. This information is crucial for ensuring the safe and effective use of this antibiotic. Certain conditions and drug combinations can significantly increase the risk of adverse effects or reduce the effectiveness of treatment.

Contraindications

You must not receive Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi if:

  • You are allergic to ceftriaxone or any of the other ingredients in this medicine
  • You have had a sudden or severe allergic reaction to penicillin or similar antibiotics (cephalosporins, carbapenems, or monobactams). Symptoms of severe allergy include sudden swelling of the throat or face making it difficult to breathe or swallow, swelling of the hands, feet and ankles, severe rash that develops rapidly, or chest pain
  • You are allergic to lidocaine and are to receive ceftriaxone as an intramuscular injection (lidocaine is sometimes used as a diluent for IM administration)
Critical Contraindication in Neonates

Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi must not be given to premature infants or to neonates (up to 28 days of age) who have certain blood problems, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes), or who need to receive calcium-containing products intravenously. Ceftriaxone can form insoluble precipitates with calcium, which have been associated with fatal outcomes in neonates.

Warnings and Precautions

Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse before treatment with Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi if any of the following apply to you:

  • Calcium-containing products: You have recently received or are about to receive products containing calcium, as there is a risk of precipitate formation
  • Antibiotic-associated diarrhea: You have recently had diarrhea after taking an antibiotic, or you have ever had bowel problems, particularly colitis (inflammation of the colon)
  • Liver or kidney impairment: You have problems with your liver or kidneys — your doctor may need to adjust your dose and monitor you more closely
  • Gallstones or kidney stones: You have gallstones or kidney stones, as ceftriaxone can form precipitates in the gallbladder and urinary tract
  • Hemolytic anemia: You have ever had hemolytic anemia (a condition where red blood cells are destroyed, which can cause pale yellow skin and weakness or breathlessness)
  • Sodium-restricted diet: This medicine contains 164.6 mg sodium per vial (equivalent to 8.2% of the WHO recommended maximum daily sodium intake for adults)
  • Severe skin reactions: You have previously experienced a combination of symptoms such as widespread rash, high body temperature, raised liver enzyme levels, blood abnormalities (eosinophilia), and enlarged lymph nodes — these may be signs of a severe drug reaction (DRESS syndrome)

Blood and Urine Tests

If you are being treated with ceftriaxone for an extended period, you may need regular blood tests. Ceftriaxone can affect the results of certain laboratory tests:

  • Urine glucose tests: Ceftriaxone may give false-positive results in non-enzymatic urine sugar tests. If you are diabetic, inform the person taking your sample that you are being treated with ceftriaxone
  • Coombs test: This blood test for certain immune-mediated blood conditions may show a false-positive result during ceftriaxone treatment
  • Blood glucose monitors: Certain blood glucose monitoring systems may read incorrectly while you are receiving ceftriaxone. Check the instructions for your monitoring device and speak to your healthcare team. Alternative testing methods should be used if necessary
  • Galactosemia screening: Ceftriaxone may cause a false-positive result in galactosemia tests

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will weigh the benefit of treating you with ceftriaxone against the risk to your child.

  • Pregnancy: Ceftriaxone crosses the placenta. While animal studies have not shown direct harmful effects on reproduction, there are no adequate controlled studies in pregnant women. It should only be used during pregnancy when the expected benefit clearly justifies the potential risk
  • Breastfeeding: Ceftriaxone is excreted in breast milk in low concentrations. Breastfed infants may experience diarrhea and fungal infections of the mucous membranes. The possibility of sensitization should be considered. Your doctor will decide whether you should stop breastfeeding or discontinue ceftriaxone therapy

Driving and Operating Machinery

Ceftriaxone may cause dizziness. If you feel dizzy, do not drive or use any tools or machines. Talk to your doctor if you experience these symptoms. You are responsible for assessing whether you are fit to drive or perform tasks requiring alertness.

How Does Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi Interact with Other Drugs?

Ceftriaxone must never be mixed with calcium-containing IV solutions. It may interact with aminoglycoside antibiotics and chloramphenicol. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements.

Drug interactions can alter the effectiveness of ceftriaxone or increase the risk of side effects. It is essential to inform your healthcare team about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently using. Some interactions are potentially life-threatening and require absolute avoidance, while others require careful monitoring.

Major Interactions

Important Drug Interactions with Ceftriaxone
Interacting Drug/Class Effect Recommendation
Calcium-containing IV solutions Risk of ceftriaxone-calcium precipitates that can deposit in lungs, kidneys, and gallbladder; potentially fatal in neonates Absolutely contraindicated in neonates; in older patients, must not be given simultaneously through the same IV line
Aminoglycosides Additive nephrotoxicity (kidney damage) when used together; physical incompatibility if mixed in the same solution Monitor renal function closely; administer via separate IV lines and at different sites
Chloramphenicol Potential antagonism of bactericidal activity of ceftriaxone Avoid concurrent use; discuss alternative therapy with your doctor
Oral anticoagulants (warfarin) Ceftriaxone may enhance the effect of vitamin K antagonists, increasing bleeding risk Monitor INR frequently; adjust anticoagulant dose as needed
Ringer’s / Hartmann’s solution Contains calcium; forms insoluble precipitates with ceftriaxone Never use as diluent for ceftriaxone; use 0.9% NaCl or 5% glucose instead

IV Incompatibilities

Based on published literature, ceftriaxone is physically or chemically incompatible with the following substances when mixed in the same IV line or solution:

  • Amsacrine — precipitation may occur
  • Vancomycin — physical incompatibility; must be administered via separate lines
  • Fluconazole — precipitation risk when mixed
  • Aminoglycosides (e.g., gentamicin, amikacin) — mutual inactivation if mixed in the same solution
  • Labetalol — physical incompatibility reported

Ceftriaxone solutions must not be mixed with or added to other medicines except those specifically listed as compatible: 0.9% sodium chloride solution and 5% glucose solution.

Compatible Diluents:

For intravenous infusion, Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi 2 g should be reconstituted in 40 mL of either 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% glucose to achieve an approximate concentration of 50 mg/mL. The infusion should be administered over at least 30 minutes.

What Is the Correct Dosage of Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi?

The usual adult dose is 1–2 g once daily, which may be increased to 4 g daily for severe infections. Children receive 50–80 mg/kg once daily. Neonates receive 20–50 mg/kg once daily. Ceftriaxone is always given by a healthcare professional as an IV infusion, IV injection, or IM injection.

Ceftriaxone is always prepared and administered by a doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. It is given as a drip into a vein (intravenous infusion over at least 30 minutes, which is preferred), as a slow injection directly into a vein (over 5 minutes), or as a deep injection into a muscle (intramuscular). The dose depends on the type and severity of infection, whether you are taking other antibiotics, your weight and age, and how well your kidneys and liver are functioning.

Adults, Elderly, and Children ≥12 Years (Body Weight ≥50 kg)

Standard Adult Dosing

1 to 2 g once daily depending on the severity and type of infection. For severe infections, the dose may be increased to up to 4 g once daily. If the daily dose exceeds 2 g, it may be given as a single dose once daily or divided into two separate doses.

Children (15 Days to 12 Years, Body Weight <50 kg)

Pediatric Dosing

50–80 mg/kg once daily depending on the severity and type of infection. For severe infections, the dose may be increased to up to 100 mg/kg per day, up to a maximum of 4 g once daily. If the daily dose exceeds 2 g, it may be given as a single dose or divided into two separate doses. Children weighing 50 kg or more should receive the standard adult dose.

Neonates (0–14 Days)

Neonatal Dosing

20–50 mg/kg once daily depending on the severity and type of infection. The maximum daily dose must not exceed 50 mg/kg. Intravenous doses in neonates should be given over 60 minutes to reduce the risk of bilirubin encephalopathy.

Dosage by Indication

Recommended Doses for Specific Indications
Indication Dose Duration
Bacterial meningitis 2–4 g once daily (adults); 80–100 mg/kg once daily (children) 7–14 days
Community-acquired pneumonia 1–2 g once daily 5–14 days
Complicated UTI / Pyelonephritis 1–2 g once daily 7–14 days
Uncomplicated gonorrhea 250–500 mg single IM dose Single dose
Lyme disease (neuroborreliosis) 2 g once daily 14–21 days
Surgical prophylaxis 2 g single dose 30–90 min before surgery
Sepsis / Bloodstream infections 2–4 g once daily 7–14 days or as clinically indicated
Endocarditis 2–4 g once daily 4–6 weeks

Liver and Kidney Impairment

If you have impaired liver or kidney function, your doctor may adjust your dose and monitor you more closely. In patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <10 mL/min), the daily dose of ceftriaxone should generally not exceed 2 g. No dose adjustment is needed for patients with isolated hepatic impairment, but in patients with both severe liver and kidney disease, close monitoring of drug levels and kidney function is recommended.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, it should be given as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Since ceftriaxone is administered by healthcare professionals in clinical settings, missed doses are uncommon.

Overdose

If too much ceftriaxone is given, symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Ceftriaxone cannot be removed from the body by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. In the event of a suspected overdose, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Important — Do Not Stop Early:

Do not stop receiving ceftriaxone unless your doctor tells you to, even if you feel better. Stopping antibiotic treatment too early can allow bacteria to survive and multiply, potentially leading to a recurrence of the infection or the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

What Are the Side Effects of Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi?

Like all medicines, ceftriaxone can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Common side effects include diarrhea, changes in blood counts, abnormal liver tests, and rash. Serious but rare side effects include severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and Clostridioides difficile-associated colitis. Seek immediate medical attention for any signs of a serious reaction.

The side effects of ceftriaxone are generally mild and self-limiting in most patients. However, as with all antibiotics, serious adverse reactions can occur. The following information is organized by frequency to help you understand how likely different side effects are. If you experience any concerning symptoms during or after treatment, inform your healthcare team immediately.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Contact your doctor or emergency services immediately if you experience: sudden swelling of the face, throat, lips, or mouth; difficulty breathing or swallowing; severe skin rash with blistering or peeling; chest pain associated with an allergic reaction; or severe, persistent diarrhea with blood or mucus.

Common

May affect up to 1 in 10 people
  • White blood cell abnormalities (decreased leukocytes, increased eosinophils)
  • Decreased platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
  • Loose stools or diarrhea
  • Changes in liver function test results
  • Skin rash

Uncommon

May affect up to 1 in 100 people
  • Fungal infections (e.g., oral thrush, vaginal candidiasis)
  • Decreased white blood cells (granulocytopenia)
  • Decreased red blood cells (anemia)
  • Blood clotting problems — easy bruising, joint pain and swelling
  • Headache and dizziness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Itching (pruritus)
  • Pain or burning along the vein where ceftriaxone was given (phlebitis)
  • Pain at the injection site
  • Fever
  • Abnormal kidney function tests (increased blood creatinine)

Rare

May affect up to 1 in 1,000 people
  • Inflammation of the colon (pseudomembranous colitis) — diarrhea with blood and mucus, abdominal pain, fever
  • Breathing difficulties (bronchospasm)
  • Raised rash (urticaria/hives) that may cover large areas of the body
  • Blood or sugar in the urine
  • Edema (fluid retention)
  • Chills
  • Reduced consciousness, abnormal movements, agitation, and seizures (particularly in elderly patients with severe kidney or nervous system problems)

Not Known

Frequency cannot be estimated from available data
  • Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) including Kounis syndrome (allergic coronary spasm)
  • Severe skin reactions: Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN)
  • Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS syndrome)
  • Hemolytic anemia (destruction of red blood cells)
  • Severe decrease in white blood cells (agranulocytosis)
  • Seizures
  • Vertigo (spinning sensation)
  • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) — severe abdominal pain radiating to the back
  • Stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth lining) and glossitis (swollen, red, sore tongue)
  • Gallbladder and liver problems — pain, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools
  • Kernicterus (neurological condition in neonates with severe jaundice)
  • Kidney problems due to ceftriaxone-calcium precipitates — pain on urination, low urine output
  • Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction — fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, and rash occurring shortly after starting treatment for spirochetal infections such as Lyme disease (usually self-limiting)
  • Secondary infections that may not respond to previously prescribed antibiotics (superinfection)
  • False-positive Coombs test result
  • Interference with certain blood glucose monitoring systems
Reporting Side Effects:

It is important to report suspected side effects after the medicine has been approved. This allows ongoing monitoring of the benefit-risk balance of the medicine. Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report any suspected adverse reactions to their national pharmacovigilance authority.

How Should Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi Be Stored?

Store the unopened vials in the outer carton to protect from light. Once reconstituted, the solution should be used immediately but may be stored for up to 12 hours at 25°C or up to 2 days at 2–8°C. Only clear solutions without visible particles should be used.

Proper storage of ceftriaxone is essential to maintain its stability and effectiveness. As this medication is prepared and administered in clinical settings, storage is primarily the responsibility of healthcare professionals. However, understanding the storage requirements provides important context about the drug’s stability profile.

  • Unopened vials: Store in the outer carton to protect from light. No special temperature requirements for the dry powder
  • Reconstituted solution: Should ideally be used immediately after preparation. Chemical and physical stability has been demonstrated for up to 12 hours at 25°C (room temperature) or 2 days at 2–8°C (refrigerated)
  • Visual inspection: Only clear solutions free from visible particles should be used. Solution color may range from colorless to pale yellow — this is normal and does not affect potency
  • Expiry date: Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. The expiry date refers to the last day of the stated month
  • Disposal: Keep out of the sight and reach of children. Unused solution should be discarded. Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste — ask your pharmacist for proper disposal guidance

What Does Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi Contain?

The active substance is ceftriaxone sodium, equivalent to 2.0 g of ceftriaxone per vial. The product is a white to yellowish powder supplied in glass vials, sealed with a rubber stopper and aluminum cap. It contains 164.6 mg of sodium per vial.

Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi 2 g is a powder for solution for infusion. Each vial contains ceftriaxone sodium, which is equivalent to 2.0 grams of ceftriaxone. There are no other excipients — the powder consists solely of the active pharmaceutical ingredient in its sodium salt form.

Pack Sizes

The product is available in packs of 5, 7, or 10 vials of powder for solution for infusion. Each vial is sealed with a rubber stopper and an aluminum cap. Not all pack sizes may be marketed in every country.

Sodium Content

This medicine contains 164.6 mg of sodium per vial, equivalent to approximately 8.2% of the WHO recommended maximum daily intake of sodium for an adult. This should be taken into consideration for patients on sodium-restricted diets, particularly those receiving multiple daily doses or concurrent sodium-containing IV fluids.

Marketing Authorization Holder

Fresenius Kabi AB. The product is manufactured by Labesfal – Laboratórios Almiro, S.A., Santiago de Besteiros, Portugal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ceftriaxon Fresenius Kabi

Ceftriaxone is a broad-spectrum third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a wide range of serious bacterial infections. Common indications include bacterial meningitis, pneumonia, urinary tract infections (including pyelonephritis), bloodstream infections (sepsis), bone and joint infections, intra-abdominal infections, skin and soft tissue infections, gonorrhea, syphilis, and Lyme disease. It is also used for surgical prophylaxis and for treating febrile neutropenia.

Ceftriaxone is given by a healthcare professional either as an intravenous (IV) infusion over at least 30 minutes, as a slow IV injection over 5 minutes, or as a deep intramuscular (IM) injection. It is not available as an oral medication. The 2 g formulation is typically dissolved in 40 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% glucose for IV infusion.

Ceftriaxone can form insoluble precipitates when mixed with calcium-containing solutions. These precipitates can deposit in the lungs, kidneys, and gallbladder, potentially causing serious or fatal complications, particularly in neonates. For this reason, ceftriaxone must never be mixed with or given simultaneously through the same IV line as calcium-containing solutions such as Ringer’s or Hartmann’s solution. In patients older than 28 days, sequential administration is possible if the IV lines are thoroughly flushed between infusions.

The most common side effects include diarrhea or loose stools, changes in blood cell counts (increased eosinophils, decreased white blood cells and platelets), abnormal liver function tests, and skin rash. Less common side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, fungal infections such as thrush, and reactions at the injection site. Most side effects are mild and resolve after treatment ends.

Ceftriaxone should only be used during pregnancy when the expected benefits clearly outweigh the potential risks. While animal studies have not shown harmful effects on the fetus, there are no well-controlled clinical studies in pregnant women. Ceftriaxone crosses the placenta. Your doctor will carefully evaluate the necessity of treatment. It is also excreted in low concentrations in breast milk, so breastfeeding mothers should discuss the risks with their healthcare provider.

Treatment duration varies depending on the infection. Most courses last 4 to 14 days. Uncomplicated gonorrhea may require only a single dose. Bacterial meningitis typically requires 7 to 14 days. Lyme disease (neuroborreliosis) is treated for 14 to 21 days. Endocarditis may require 4 to 6 weeks. Surgical prophylaxis uses a single pre-operative dose. Your doctor will determine the appropriate duration based on your specific condition and clinical response.

References

  1. European Medicines Agency (EMA). Ceftriaxone — Article 30 Referral, Annex III — Summary of Product Characteristics. Available at: ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/referrals/ceftriaxone. Accessed January 2026.
  2. World Health Organization (WHO). Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd List (2023). Ceftriaxone listed under beta-lactam antibiotics (cephalosporins). Available at: who.int.
  3. Patel IH, Chen S, Parsonnet M, et al. Pharmacokinetics of ceftriaxone in humans. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 1981;20(5):634-641. doi:10.1128/AAC.20.5.634
  4. van de Beek D, Cabellos C, Dzupova O, et al. ESCMID guideline: diagnosis and treatment of acute bacterial meningitis. Clin Microbiol Infect. 2016;22 Suppl 3:S37-62. doi:10.1016/j.cmi.2016.01.007
  5. Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA). Practice Guidelines for the Management of Bacterial Meningitis. Clin Infect Dis. 2004;39(9):1267-84.
  6. British National Formulary (BNF). Ceftriaxone — Indications, dose, and administration. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Accessed January 2026.
  7. Stahlmann R, Lode H. Safety considerations of fluoroquinolones in the elderly: an update. Drugs Aging. 2010;27(3):193-209. [Reference for comparative context on antibiotic safety.]
  8. World Health Organization (WHO). AWaRe Classification of Antibiotics, 2021. Ceftriaxone classified as Watch group antibiotic.

About the Editorial Team

This article was written and reviewed by the iMedic Medical Editorial Team, comprising licensed specialists in infectious diseases, clinical pharmacology, and internal medicine. Our content follows the GRADE evidence framework and is based on peer-reviewed research, international clinical guidelines (EMA, FDA, WHO, IDSA, BNF), and established medical standards.

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