Piperacillin (pi-per-a-SIL-in)

Treats infections. Belongs to a class of drugs called penicillin antibiotics.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into a muscle or into a vein.
• An IM injection is a shot given in your muscle (upper arm, thigh, buttocks). An IV infusion is medicine that is put directly into your body through one of your veins.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• If you are receiving IV medicine, check the bag to make sure there are no leaks. Also make sure the solution is clear.
• Keep using this medicine for the full treatment time, even if you feel better after the first few doses. Your infection may not clear up if you stop using the medicine too soon.

If a dose is missed:

• This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you store this medicine at home, keep it in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Take it out of the refrigerator an hour before the time for your next dose. Allow the medicine to warm to room temperature in a clean, dry place.
• If you see particles in the solution, You should not use it.
• Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using probenecid before you use this medicine.
• Birth control pills may not work as well while taking piperacillin. Use a second form of birth control while you are taking this medicine (such as a condom).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any cephalosporin antibiotic such as Keflex® or Ceclor® before you take piperacillin.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have mononucleosis (mono), stomach or intestinal disease, asthma, liver or kidney disease, cystic fibrosis, hay fever, or other allergies before you take this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
• If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.
• If you have severe diarrhea, ask your doctor before taking any medicine to stop the diarrhea.
• Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blistering, peeling, red skin rash.
• Diarrhea (loose, watery stools that may or may not contain blood).
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
• Swelling, pain, or redness near where your IV is located.
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild nausea, vomiting, or upset stomach.
• Pain where your IM shot was given.
• Vaginal itching or discharge.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088