Piperacillin-tazobactam
A broad-spectrum penicillin for hospital-acquired infections, sepsis of unknown source, neutropenic sepsis and intra-abdominal infections.
On this page
Uses
- Sepsis of unknown source, hospital-acquired infections.
- Neutropenic sepsis.
- Intra-abdominal infection, complicated diabetic foot, severe cholangitis.
Adult dose
| Indication | Dose |
|---|---|
| Most infections | 4.5 g IV every 8 hours |
| Severe infection, neutropenic sepsis | 4.5 g IV every 6 hours |
Children's dose
90 mg/kg IV every 6–8 hours (max 4.5 g per dose).
Kidney and liver
Creatinine clearance below 40: reduce (e.g. 4.5 g every 8–12 hours per your drug reference).
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Use if benefits outweigh risks.
Side effects and cautions
- Penicillin allergy: avoid.
- Diarrhoea, C. difficile, low potassium, low platelets with long courses.
- Increased kidney injury when combined with vancomycin.
Frequently asked questions
What is the dose of Tazocin?
4.5 g IV every 8 hours, or every 6 hours in severe or neutropenic sepsis.
Does piperacillin-tazobactam cover anaerobes?
Yes, it covers most anaerobes, so metronidazole usually isn't needed.
Used in these guides
Sources
Doses on this page are typical doses from the sources above. Always confirm with a current drug reference, the product leaflet and your hospital protocol, especially in children, pregnancy and kidney or liver disease.