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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using ceftaroline (Teflaro)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to ceftaroline or to other cephalosporin antibiotics, such as:

• cefaclor (Raniclor);
• cefadroxil (Duricef);
• cefazolin (Ancef);
• cefdinir (Omnicef);
• cefditoren (Spectracef);
• cefpodoxime (Vantin);
• cefprozil (Cefzil);
• ceftibuten (Cedax);
• cefuroxime (Ceftin);
• cephalexin (Keflex); or
• cephradine (Velosef); and others.

To make sure you can safely use ceftaroline, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis);
• a history of intestinal problems, such as colitis; or
• if you are allergic to any drugs (especially penicillin antibiotics).

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether ceftaroline passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is ceftaroline given (Teflaro)?

Ceftaroline is injected into a vein through an IV. You may be shown how to use an IV at home. Do not self-inject this medicine if you do not fully understand how to give the injection and properly dispose of used needles, IV tubing, and other items used to inject the medicine.

Ceftaroline is usually given every 12 hours for 5 to 14 days. Follow your doctor's instructions. This medicine must be given slowly, and the IV infusion can take up at least 1 hour to complete.

Ceftaroline is a powder medicine that must be mixed with a liquid (diluent) before using it. If you are using the injections at home, be sure you understand how to properly mix and store the medicine.

Prepare your dose in a syringe only when you are ready to give yourself an injection. Ceftaroline should look clear or yellow in color. Do not use the medication if it has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.

Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics. Ceftaroline will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.

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