About cefotaxime sodium
Third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic
Used for
- Treats serious bacterial infections, including pneumonia, meningitis, bloodstream, urinary, and abdominal infections.
- Prevents infection during some operations.
Usual adult dose
Usually 1–2 g intravenously or intramuscularly every 8–12 hours; severe infections may need higher, more frequent doses.
Usual dose in children
Usually 50–180 mg/kg/day intravenously or intramuscularly, divided into 4–6 doses; newborn dosing varies by age.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
- Injection-site pain or inflammation
- Rash or other allergic reactions
- Changes in blood counts or liver tests
Important warnings
- Use only for bacterial infections; it does not treat viral illnesses.
- Serious allergy can occur, especially with previous cephalosporin allergy.
- Dose adjustment may be needed with kidney impairment.
- Antibiotic-associated severe diarrhea can occur during or after treatment.
Pregnancy
May be used when clinically needed; pregnancy-specific risks and benefits should be assessed by a clinician.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter breast milk; monitor for infant diarrhea, thrush, or rash.
Interactions
- Probenecid may increase cefotaxime levels.
- Kidney-damaging medicines may increase kidney-related risks.
- Warfarin may have stronger effects; monitoring may be needed.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.