Generic name: ceftobiprole [ SEF-toe-BYE-prole ]
Brand name: Zevtera
Dosage form: intravenous powder for injection (667 mg)
Drug class: Next generation cephalosporins

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on May 12, 2025. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is ceftobiprole?

Ceftobiprole is an antibiotic that is used to treat skin, heart, or blood bacterial infections in adults.

Ceftobiprole is also used to treat pneumonia caused by bacteria in adults and children 3 months of age and older.

Ceftobiprole may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Ceftobiprole side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Ceftobiprole may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe stomach pain, diarrhea that is watery or bloody (even if it occurs months after your last dose);

• seizures;

• muscle stiffness or twitching; or

• drowsiness, tiredness, confusion, thinking problems.

Common side effects of ceftobiprole may include:

• low potassium blood levels;

• anemia (low red blood cells);

• headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;

• stomach pain, high blood pressure;

• fever, low white blood cell (WBC) counts;

• pain, swelling, burning, or irritation around the IV needle;

• abnormal liver and kidney function tests;

• altered sense of taste;

• sleep problems (insomnia);

• dizziness; or

• rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use ceftobiprole if you are allergic to ceftobiprole or similar medicines such as: ceftaroline, cefuroxime, cefdinir, cefepime, ceftriaxone, cephalexin, meropenem, penicillin and others,

Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

• a seizure;

• diarrhea caused by an infection or antibiotics; or

• kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis).

It is not known if ceftobiprole will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using this medicine.

How is ceftobiprole given?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Ceftobiprole is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider may give you this injection or may teach you how to properly use this medicine by yourself.

Prepare an injection only when you are ready to give it. Call your pharmacist if the medicine looks cloudy, has changed colors or has particles in it. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you don't understand how to use an injection.

Be sure you understand how to properly mix this medicine with a liquid (diluent) and how to store the mixture.

Keep using this medicine even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses could make your infection resistant to medication. Ceftobiprole will not treat a viral infection (flu or a common cold).

Depending on the severity of the infection, ceftobiprole is usually given for as long as needed after lab tests show that the infection has cleared. Your doctor will determine how long to treat you with this medicine.

Antibiotic medicines can cause diarrhea. Tell your doctor if you have diarrhea that is watery or bloody.

Your doctor will need to check your progress on a regular basis. You may need frequent medical tests including kidney function tests.

This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor or laboratory staff who treats you that you are using cefazolin.

Doses are based on weight in children and teenagers. Your child's dose may change if the child gains or loses weight.

Follow all storage instructions provided with ceftobiprole. Your pharmacist can provide more information about how to store this medicine.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using ceftobiprole?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect ceftobiprole?

Other drugs may affect ceftobiprole, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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