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- 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.
Once reconstituted, the solution must be used immediately.