Cefotaxime
Generic Details
Generic Name
Cefotaxime
Other Names
- Claforan
Drug Class
- Cephalosporin antibiotic
Chemical Formula
C16H17N5O7S2
Molecular Weight
455.46 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs)
Indications
- Treatment of bacterial infections including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, septicemia, meningitis, and intra-abdominal infections
Common Dosage Forms
- Injection (powder for solution)
Typical Dosage
- 1-2 grams every 4-8 hours, adjusted based on the severity of the infection
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosing based on weight and severity of infection
Geriatric Dosage
- May require dosage adjustment based on renal function
Side Effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, rash, fever, injection site reactions, allergic reactions including anaphylaxis
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or beta-lactam antibiotics
Pregnancy Category
- Category B
Lactation Safety
- Considered compatible with breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- May interact with probenecid, aminoglycosides, loop diuretics, and oral anticoagulants
Overdose Symptoms
- Potential for neurotoxicity and nephrotoxicity
Antidote for Overdose
- Supportive care and monitoring
Storage Conditions
- Store at controlled room temperature
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well-absorbed after intramuscular or intravenous administration
- Distribution: Wide distribution in body tissues and fluids
- Metabolism: Partially metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Primarily eliminated unchanged in the urine
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with renal impairment
Warnings
- May cause overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including Clostridium difficile