The stability of ceftazidime for injection in the dry state and after reconstitution with water for injections was determined. Compatibility of ceftazidime for injection with lignocaine hydrochloride injection (1.0% w/v) and several commonly used intravenous fluids was tested, Ceftazidime for injection was found to be essentially stable in the dry state and may be stored at 25 degrees C. In solution, loss of potency occurs slowly; it was concluded that, if stored at room temperature, vials reconstituted with either water for injections or lignocaine hydrochloride injection (1-0% w/v) should be used within 6 h of preparation and dilute solutions in intravenous fluids should be used within 24 h of preparation (6 h for sodium bicarbonate solution).