Nefazol (Cefazolin Sodium)

Cefazolin Sodium is a broad‑spectrum cephalosporin that targets Gram‑positive and some Gram‑negative bacteria, making it suitable for several infection categories.

• Surgical prophylaxis: prevents postoperative bacterial infections in patients undergoing operative procedures.
• Skin and soft tissue infections: treats cellulitis and wound infections caused by susceptible organisms.
• Bone and joint infections: used for osteomyelitis and septic arthritis when pathogens are sensitive.
• Urinary tract infections: effective against uncomplicated UTIs caused by susceptible bacteria.
• Respiratory tract infections: manages community‑acquired pneumonia and bronchitis when indicated.

• Cefazolin Sodium inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin‑binding proteins (PBPs) located on the inner membrane of susceptible bacteria. This binding interferes with the cross‑linking of peptidoglycan strands, weakening the cell wall and leading to osmotic instability, cell lysis, and bacterial death. The drug exhibits bactericidal activity primarily against Gram‑positive cocci and selected Gram‑negative organisms.

Adverse reactions to cefazolin may vary in frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Injection site pain or erythema
• Rash or mild skin itching
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Transient elevation of liver enzymes
• Headache

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Anaphylactic or severe allergic reactions
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis
• Clostridioides difficile‑associated colitis
• Hemolytic anemia
• Thrombocytopenia
• Acute interstitial nephritis

Cefazolin should be used with careful clinical assessment and monitoring.

• Allergy assessment: avoid in patients with known cephalosporin or severe penicillin hypersensitivity.
• Renal function: adjust dose in patients with impaired kidney function to prevent accumulation.
• Hepatic monitoring: observe liver function tests during prolonged therapy.
• Pregnancy and lactation: use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk, as safety data are limited.
• Concomitant nephrotoxic drugs: monitor renal parameters when combined with other nephrotoxic agents.
• Store at below 25°C: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and light.

Cefazolin may interact with other medicines, requiring attention to dosage and monitoring.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Probenecid: reduces renal excretion of cefazolin, increasing serum concentrations and toxicity risk.
• Aminoglycosides: combined use can heighten nephrotoxicity.
• Loop diuretics: may exacerbate renal impairment when used together.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Warfarin: cefazolin can potentiate anticoagulant effect, requiring INR monitoring.
• Oral contraceptives: may decrease hormonal efficacy, advise alternative contraception.
• Methotrexate: concurrent use can raise methotrexate levels, necessitating serum level checks.