Pyridine (azabenzene) is the principal degradation product for ceftazidime.
Mechanism of formation: spontaneous hydrolysis of the beta-lactam ring in aqueous solution
Toxicity includes:
(1) headache, loss of coordination and dizziness (CNS toxicity)
(2) hepatotoxicity
(3) nephrotoxicity
(4) nausea or loss of appetite
(5) carcinogenesis
Risk factors:
(1) repeated or prolonged therapy with ceftazidime
(2) high doses of ceftazidime
(3) improper storage of ceftazidime
(4) prolonged storage of ceftazidime
(5) addition to aqueous solutions for peritoneal dialysis
