Ceftriaxone injection is a medication that is primarily used in the treatment of conditions caused by bacterial infections. It is generally administered by a health professional, but may also be prescribed for home usage. The injection is thought to be effective at treating certain infections by destroying bacteria; however, if the medication is not used correctly, it can cause a person’s immune system to become resistant to the active ingredients. It is neither recommended nor effective for the treatment of infections, such as the common cold or flu, that are caused by viruses.
One of the most common uses for a ceftriaxone injection is for the treatment of bacterial meningitis. Meningitis is a condition in which the protective membranes around the spine and brain, known as the meninges, become inflamed as a result of a viral or bacterial infection. Symptoms include a sudden onset of vomiting, fever, chills, pain in the head or neck, and sensitivity to light. The body is often able to fight off the viral infection, but if the condition is caused by a bacterial infection, it is likely to be fatal. Immediate treatment, such as with ceftriaxone, is typically administered as soon as possible when meningitis symptoms are present to prevent complications.
Bacterial infections affecting the genitals are often another one of the possible uses of a ceftriaxone injection. One of the applications for the medications is for treating gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted disease caused by a bacterial infection in the membranes of the genitals. It may result in severe burning during urination, as well as discharge. Women experiencing pelvic inflammatory disease may also be prescribed the injection to treat infections that can cause swelling and scar tissue on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus, which may lead to infertility if not treated.
Ceftriaxone injections are also often used in the prevention of infections, rather than treating already diagnosed infections. To reduce the risk of developing infections that can cause serious complications, the injection may be given to patients prior to invasive surgery. The medication may also be recommended for people who have experienced a physical attack. For example, a ceftriaxone injection may be administered to victims of sexual assault in order to help prevent certain bacterial diseases that are sexually transmitted, like gonorrhea. In cases of attacks by animals, a patient may be given the injection to reduce the likelihood of infections from transmitted bacteria and to prevent any bite wounds from becoming infected.