Tazpen Warnings

Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity (anaphylactic/anaphylactoid) reactions (including shock) have been reported in patients receiving therapy with penicillins including piperacillin and tazobactam for injection. These reactions are more likely to occur in individuals with a history of penicillin hypersensitivity or a history of sensitivity to multiple allergens. There have been reports of individuals with a history of penicillin hypersensitivity who have experienced severe reactions when treated with cephalosporins. Before initiating therapy with TAZPEN for injection, careful inquiry should be made concerning previous hypersensitivity reactions to penicillins, cephalosporins, or other allergens. If an allergic reaction occurs, TAZPEN should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted. Serious anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions (including shock) require immediate emergency treatment with adrenaline. Oxygen, intravenous steroids, and airway management, including intubation, should also be administered as indicated.
Antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis has been reported with many antibiotics including piperacillin. A toxin produced by Clostridium difficile appears to be the primary cause. The severity of the colitis may range from mild to life threatening. It is important to consider this diagnosis in patients who develop diarrhoea or colitis in association with antibiotic use (this may occur up to several weeks after cessation of antibiotic therapy). Mild cases usually respond to drug discontinuation alone. However, in moderate to severe cases appropriate therapy with a suitable oral antibacterial agent effective against C. difficile should be considered. Fluids, electrolytes and protein replacement should be provided when indicated.