ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
A single shot is the standard treatment for gonorrhea.
What it's used for
- Gonorrhea
- Pneumonia and other serious infections
- Meningitis
- Ear infections in children who can't take pills
- Kidney infections
How to take it
- Given by a health care worker as a shot in the muscle or by IV.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Pain where injected
- Diarrhea
- Rash
Call 911Swelling of the face, lips, or throat, hives, or trouble breathing
Call 911A blistering, peeling, or widespread red rash, especially with fever
Call your provider todaySevere watery or bloody diarrhea, even weeks after finishing (possible C. diff infection)
Call your provider todayUpper right belly pain (gallbladder sludge)
Warnings
- Tell your provider about cephalosporin or penicillin allergies.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Calcium-containing IV fluids must not be mixed with it in newborns.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Commonly used in pregnancy when needed.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Not applicable: it's given by a health care worker on a schedule.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Ceftriaxone (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.