| Common Brands | Claforan (brand no longer available) |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
Cephalosporin antibiotic |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Cefotaxime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It is used to treat many bacterial infections. It is effective against gram-negative bacteria but also has activity against some gram-positive organisms. Cefotaxime is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is used in both outpatient and inpatient settings, often in the form of intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) injection, for moderate to severe infections. Cefotaxime works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, that eventually leads to the eradication of the bacteria.
This medicine is provided within the clinic. Normally, this medication is injected intravenously or through intramuscular injection. The solution must be ready and prescribed to a patient by a physician.
General Instructions:
Intravenous Administration: Generally, intravenous drips for cefotaxime administration are performed slowly, over 30 to 60 minutes according to dose.
Intramuscular (IM) Injections: Cefotaxime can be injected deep within a major muscle, especially the buttocks. The injection into such an area causes pain or discomfort in the region of the injection.
Cefotaxime should be used exactly as directed by a healthcare provider and the treatment should be fully completed because improvement of the symptoms alone could lead to antibiotic resistance.
Cefotaxime, like all the other beta-lactam antibiotics, acts through cell wall synthesis inhibition in the bacterium. The structural framework of the bacterium against the osmotic pressure is obtained due to the bacterial cell wall. Cefotaxime acts upon penicillin-binding proteins residing on the bacterial cell walls; these are required at the final stages of bacterial cell wall synthesis.
The disruption of the cell wall causes instability in the bacteria, ultimately leading to the breakdown of the cell and death of the bacteria. This activity is more active against the living bacteria. Cefotaxime is also effective against both gram-negative and some gram-positive bacteria but is very powerful against gram-negative organisms such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, and Haemophilus influenzae.
Although cefotaxime is well-tolerated, it has side effects that require attention. The common side effects include the following:
Gastrointestinal issues: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Allergic reactions: Rash, itching, or swelling in patients with a history of allergies to cephalosporins or penicillins. In some cases, more severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis can occur.
Injection site reactions: Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site (either IM or IV) may be experienced.
Kidney problems: Cefotaxime is excreted through the kidneys, and in patients with existing kidney diseases, it may lead to renal dysfunction. Renal function should be monitored during the treatment.
Hematological reactions: Rarely, cefotaxime may cause alterations in blood counts, such as leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, or anemia.
If any severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction occur, get medical attention right away.
Allergy to beta-lactams: Cefotaxime is to be used with caution in patients who have had an allergic reaction to cephalosporins, penicillins, or other beta-lactam antibiotics because cross-reactivity may occur.
Renal impairment: Because cefotaxime is excreted by the kidneys, patients with renal impairment may need to have their doses adjusted. The patient’s renal function should be monitored closely.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Cefotaxime is considered a pregnancy category B drug, meaning that it is generally safe for use in pregnant women. However, the drug should be used only if necessary. It is not known whether cefotaxime is excreted in breast milk, so it should be administered with caution to nursing women.
Superinfections: Prolonged use of cefotaxime can cause superinfections, including Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), which is a serious condition requiring medical attention.
Cefotaxime interacts with other medications, leading to an effect that may decrease the efficacy or increase the potential toxicity of the drug. Such interactions include:
Probenecid : Probenecid causes inhibition of the renal excretion of cefotaxime with resultant elevated blood concentrations of the antibiotic. This is likely to enhance the risk of cefotaxime toxicity.
Aminoglycosides: Concomitant use of cefotaxime with aminoglycosides, such as gentamicin, may enhance the potential for renal impairment, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
Oral contraceptives: The use of antibiotics such as cefotaxime can reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives. This risk is low, however, and it is generally recommended that additional methods of contraception be used during antibiotic therapy.
Warfarin: Cefotaxime increases the effect of drugs that cause blood thinners such as warfarin. The risk of bleeding increases, and coagulation status should be monitored.
Ensure that you share with your health provider any other medications you are on or are taking over-the-counter medicines, supplements, or herbs.
The recommended dosage of cefotaxime varies based on the infection being treated:
In pediatric patients, the typical dose is 50–100 mg/kg/day, divided into two or three doses, depending on the infection type.
The dosage for patients with renal impairment should be adjusted based on the degree of renal dysfunction.
Cefotaxime is a prescription drug and needs to be prescribed by a licensed health care provider. It is mostly administered in hospitals because it requires intravenous or intramuscular injection. The health care provider will assess the type and severity of the infection and determine the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment.
What is Cefotaxime used for?
How is Cefotaxime administered?
What is the usual dosage of Cefotaxime for adults?
Can Cefotaxime be used in children?
What are the common side effects of Cefotaxime?
Are there any serious side effects associated with Cefotaxime?
Can Cefotaxime be used in patients with kidney problems?
Is Cefotaxime safe during pregnancy?
Can Cefotaxime interact with other medications?
What should I do if I miss a dose of Cefotaxime?
How long is Cefotaxime typically prescribed?
Can Cefotaxime be used to treat viral infections?
Are there any dietary restrictions while taking Cefotaxime?
Is it important to complete the full course of Cefotaxime?
What should I do if I experience signs of an allergic reaction to Cefotaxime?
How should Cefotaxime be stored?
Will Cefotaxime affect my lab test results?
Can I consume alcohol while taking Cefotaxime?
What should I do if my symptoms worsen while taking Cefotaxime?
Where can I find more information about Cefotaxime?
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