Cefazolin: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Cefazolin for Injection, USP and other antibacterial drugs, Cefazolin for Injection, USP should be used only to treat or prevent infe
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label db977f52…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
| Adverse reaction (as reported in labeling) | Reported frequency* |
|---|---|
| 190 mg | 50% |
| 375 mg | 50% |
| 150 mg | 40% |
| 300 mg | 40% |
| 115 mg | 30% |
| 225 mg | 30% |
| 75 mg | 20% |
| 40 mg | 10% |
*Highest percentage reported for the active moiety across placebo-controlled trial tables in current FDA labeling. Values reflect trial reporting, not your individual risk.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Cefazolin for Injection, USP and other antibacterial drugs, Cefazolin for Injection, USP should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy. Cefazolin for injection, USP is indicated in the treatment of the following serious infections due to susceptible organisms: RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTIONS due to Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella species, Haemophilus influenzae, Staphylococcus aureus (penicillin-sensitive and penicillin-resistant) and group A beta-hemolytic streptococci. Injectable benzathine penicillin is considered to be the drug of choice in treatment and prevention of streptococcal infections including the prophylaxis of rheumatic fever. Cefazolin is effective in the eradication of streptococci from the nasopharynx; however, data establishing the efficacy…
Conditions associated with Cefazolin in labeling
Endocarditis
Infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves, which can cause fever, fatigue, and heart murm...
Prostatitis
Inflammation or infection of the prostate gland causing pelvic pain, urinary symptoms, and sometimes fever....
Rheumatic fever
Rheumatic fever is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs....
Sepsis
A life-threatening condition in which the body's response to infection damages its own tissues and organs....
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cefazolin used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Cefazolin?
The table above shows adverse reactions and the highest frequencies reported in placebo-controlled trials summarized in current FDA labeling for Cefazolin. Individual risk varies.
Does Cefazolin require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Cefazolin.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.