Piperacillin and Tazobactam Sodium

Piperacillin and Tazobactam Sodium is an injectable antibacterial combination product consisting of the semisynthetic penicillin-class antibiotic piperacillin sodium and the beta-lactamase inhibitor tazobactam sodium. It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis while preventing destruction of the antibiotic by bacterial beta-lactamase enzymes, thereby broadening the spectrum of activity against many resistant strains.

Dosage by Body Weight

Administered exclusively via intravenous infusion. In adult patients, the standard recommended dosage is 3.375 g every 6 hours, or 4.5 g every 6 hours for severe infections such as nosocomial pneumonia. For pediatric patients weighing less than 40 kg with normal renal function, the standard dosing is based on body weight, typically ranging from 75 mg to 100 mg of the piperacillin component per kg body weight, administered every 6 to 8 hours. Infusion is typically given over 30 minutes, or as a prolonged infusion over 4 hours. Renal impairment requires dose adjustments based on creatinine clearance.

  1. Body Weight
    Below 5 kg
    Dose
    Not routinely recommended
    Frequency
    Use only if prescribed
    Tracking Notes
    Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients under 2 months of age have not been established. For infants 2-9 months, use only under strict specialist supervision where dose is highly tailored.
  2. Body Weight
    5-7 kg
    Dose
    375 mg to 500 mg (piperacillin component)
    Frequency
    Every 8 hours
    Tracking Notes
    Calculated based on 75 mg to 100 mg of piperacillin component per kg body weight. Must be diluted to an appropriate concentration and infused over 30 minutes.
  3. Body Weight
    8-10 kg
    Dose
    600 mg to 800 mg (piperacillin component)
    Frequency
    Every 8 hours
    Tracking Notes
    Dose is adjusted according to the severity of infection. Close monitoring of kidney function and complete blood count is advised during therapy.
  4. Body Weight
    11-15 kg
    Dose
    825 mg to 1200 mg (piperacillin component)
    Frequency
    Every 8 hours
    Tracking Notes
    Do not mix with other drugs in the same IV line. Ensure patient is well-hydrated during the course of treatment.
  5. Body Weight
    16-20 kg
    Dose
    1200 mg to 1600 mg (piperacillin component)
    Frequency
    Every 8 hours
    Tracking Notes
    In severe infections (e.g., pseudomonal infections), frequency may be increased to every 6 hours by clinical decision, not to exceed adult maximum dose guidelines.

Formulation

Powder for InjectionIntravenous Infusion

Purpose

Treatment of moderate to severe bacterial infections including nosocomial pneumonia, community-acquired pneumonia, complicated intra-abdominal infections, complicated skin and skin structure infections, and female pelvic inflammatory disease caused by beta-lactamase-producing susceptible organisms.

Generic Name

Piperacillin and Tazobactam Sodium

Branded Drug Names

Piperacillin and Tazobactam Sodium is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:

Scheduled Drug

Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.

Alternatives

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. WHO references and weight bands are simplified for tracking and must not replace medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication.