Cefazolin
Cefazolin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used primarily to prevent and treat bacterial infections caused by susceptible gram-positive organisms. It is commonly administered before, during, and after surgery to reduce the risk of surgical site infections, and is also used for treating skin infections, bone and joint infections, and respiratory tract infections. This medication works by interfering with the bacteria's ability to form cell walls, ultimately killing the bacteria.
A first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used for surgical prophylaxis and treating susceptible gram-positive bacterial infections.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J01DB04
- RxNorm
- 2180
- Generic
- Cefazolin
- Class
- atc-j01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- B
- Lactation
- safe
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Prevention of surgical site infections (most common use); treatment of skin and soft tissue infections, bone and joint infections, respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, biliary tract infections, and septicemia caused by susceptible organisms including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus species, and some Escherichia coli.
Cefazolin is a beta-lactam antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to disruption of the peptidoglycan layer and bacterial cell death.
Administered intravenously or intramuscularly; requires dose adjustment in patients with kidney impairment; penicillin-allergic patients may have cross-reactivity; common side effects include rash, diarrhea, and injection site reactions; monitor for allergic reactions including anaphylaxis; generally not effective against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or enterococci.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy