About cefepime
Fourth-generation cephalosporin antibiotic
Used for
- Treats serious bacterial infections, including pneumonia and urinary infections.
- Treats skin and abdominal infections and febrile neutropenia.
- Used for susceptible bacteria; it does not treat viral infections.
Usual adult dose
Usually 1–2 g intravenously every 8–12 hours, adjusted for infection and kidney function.
Usual dose in children
For children 2 months and older, usually 50 mg/kg intravenously every 8–12 hours; maximum 2 g per dose. Dosing varies by infection.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, or rash
- Injection-site pain or inflammation
- Allergic reactions
- Confusion or seizures, especially with kidney impairment
Important warnings
- Dose adjustment is needed with reduced kidney function.
- Serious allergic reactions may occur, particularly with cephalosporin or penicillin allergy.
- Seek urgent assessment for severe or bloody diarrhea.
- Use only for bacterial infections when appropriate; unnecessary use promotes resistance.
Pregnancy
Use when clinically needed; available human data have not identified a clear risk, but evidence is limited.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter breast milk. Infant diarrhea or thrush is possible; clinical assessment may be needed.
Interactions
- Aminoglycosides may increase kidney injury risk.
- Diuretics may increase kidney injury risk.
- Warfarin and other anticoagulants may require closer monitoring.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.