CEFOTAXIME injectable

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    Prescription under medical supervision


    Therapeutic action

    • Third-generation cephalosporin antibacterial

    Indications

    In neonates:

    • Bacterial meningitis, in combination with another antibacterial
    • Urinary infection
    • Pneumonia (ampicillin + gentamicin is preferred for this indication)
    • Gonococcal conjunctivitis (if ceftriaxone is not available or contraindicated)

    Forms and strengths, route of administration

    • Powder for injection, in 250 mg and 500 mg vials, to be dissolved in 2 ml water for injection, for IM or slow IV injection (3 to 5 minutes) or IV infusion (20 to 60 minutes) in 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% glucose.

    Dosage

    Meningitis, urinary infection, pneumonia

    • 0 to 7 days (< 2 kg): 50 mg/kg every 12 hours
    • 0 to 7 days (≥ 2 kg): 50 mg/kg every 8 hours
    • 8 days to < 1 month: 50 mg/kg every 8 hours

     

    Gonococcal conjunctivitis

    • 100 mg/kg IM single dose

     

    For IV administration, cefotaxime powder can only be dissolved in water for injection. For infusions, each dose of cefotaxime must be dissolved in 5 ml/kg of 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% glucose.

    Duration

    • Depending on indication and clinical response

    Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions

    • Do not administer to patients allergic to cephalosporins or penicillins (risk of cross-sensitivity).
    • Administer with caution and reduce dosage in patients with renal impairment.
    • Avoid or monitor combination with other nephrotoxic drugs: amphotericin B, aminoglycosides, pentamidine, etc.
    • May cause: gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhoea, nausea), haematological disorders (neutropenia, leucopenia), heart rhythm disorders if IV injection is too fast, allergic reactions and cutaneous reactions (Stevens-Johnson and Lyell syndromes), sometimes severe.

    Remarks

    • Do not mix with other drugs in the same syringe or bottle.

    Storage

     
     – 
     
    – Below 25 °C
    Once reconstituted, the solution must be used immediately.