CDC and Alabama investigate ‘adverse events’ caused by antibiotic

In Alabama, many doctors have decided to pause the use of ceftriaxone, an antibiotic widely used to treat bacterial infections, following a warning issued by the state Department of Public Health.

The decision came after the appearance of eleven reports of possible adverse events related to this medication, known commercially as Rocephin, in different parts of the state in recent months.

Ceftriaxone is one of the most widely used antibiotics in the treatment of bacterial infections such as pneumonia, meningitis and E. coli. Additionally, it is administered preventively in patients undergoing certain types of surgery. However, recent adverse events have raised concern among healthcare professionals, who seek to ensure the safety of their patients while continuing to use alternative treatments.

According to the official statement from the Department of Health, some of the patients who experienced adverse reactions showed signs of anaphylaxis, a severe type of allergic reaction. Among the reported symptoms are hives, itching, hypotension and hypoxia, that is, dangerously low levels of oxygen in the blood. Fortunately, all affected people have received timely treatment and have recovered, as confirmed by the authorities.

Although a direct connection between ceftriaxone and these reactions has not been established, the Department of Public Health has emphasized that the primary goal is to investigate any possible epidemiological link. This investigation includes the evaluation of factors such as the use of diluent substances, steroid medications administered in conjunction with the antibiotic, and other elements that could have contributed to the reported adverse events.

“The people investigated had a variety of pre-existing medical conditions, and so far no specific causal link between ceftriaxone and these reactions has been identified,” the official statement says. Authorities have insisted that this pause in the use of the drug is a preventive approach, and that they will continue to work closely with health care providers to resolve any concerns.

Although no specific information has been released about the locations where the incidents occurred, several clinics in northern Alabama have warned about the possibility of temporarily suspending use of the drug while the investigation is ongoing. The Department of Public Health stressed that, as with any injectable antibiotic, there is always a risk of allergic reactions, and emphasized the importance of monitoring patients and responding appropriately if complications occur.

According to data from the department, cephalosporins, a category of antibiotics to which ceftriaxone belongs, can cause allergic reactions in between 0.5% and 2.5% of patients who receive them. While this percentage may seem low, the potential consequences of a severe reaction justify the implementation of precautionary measures and prompt medical attention in the event of an emergency.

As part of preventive actions, the Department of Health has urged healthcare providers to report any adverse events associated with the administration of ceftriaxone to the Adverse Reaction Reporting System. This system allows essential data to be collected that could help clarify the causes of these incidents and ensure the safety of future treatments.

The case highlights the challenges inherent in using medications, even those with a strong track record of effectiveness. In a medical environment where every decision can have critical implications for patients’ health, professionals continue to take rigorous measures to balance the benefits of treatments with managing the associated risks.

Meanwhile, patients requiring treatment for bacterial infections are being redirected to therapeutic alternatives, as authorities advance research. Although this episode has raised concerns, it also highlights the commitment of health systems to proactively address any situation that may compromise patient safety.

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