Treating Bacterial Keratitis or Conjunctivitis With Cefazolin Ophthalmic

Jim Budde, PharmD, RPh, DICVP, FACVP, Chief Pharmacy Officer, Instinct Science

ArticleFebruary 20261 min read
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Full drug information can be found in Plumb’s.

What is Cefazolin?

Cefazolin is an antibacterial commonly administered as a perioperative injection for prevention of surgical infections and can be used as an eye drop for treatment of bacterial keratitis or conjunctivitis.

Pharmacology of Cefazolin

Cefazolin is a first-generation cephalosporin with activity primarily against gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus spp and Streptococcus spp.

Contraindications of Cefazolin

Cefazolin is contraindicated in dogs and cats hypersensitive to it or to other cephalosporins.

Adverse Effects of Cefazolin

Adverse effects associated with ophthalmic cefazolin formulations may include tearing, redness, itching, and other signs of discomfort. 

Additional Information & Administration Instructions 

Ophthalmic cefazolin formulations must be compounded. 

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