Brand names: Claforan®
Chemical formula:
Cefotaxime Sodium Solution for injection
What is this medicine?
CEFOTAXIME (sef oh TAKS eem) is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It is used to treat certain kinds of bacterial infections. It will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•bleeding problems
•kidney disease
•stomach, intestinal problems like colitis
•an unusual or allergic reaction to cefotaxime, cephalosporin or penicillin antibiotics, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is injected into a muscle, or infused through a vein. It is usually given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
If you get this medicine at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine. Use exactly as directed. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or healthcare provider to get one.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.What may interact with this medicine?
•certain antibiotics given by injection
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not begin to improve or if you get new symptoms. Your doctor will monitor your condition and blood work as needed.
Do not treat diarrhea with over-the-counter products. Contact your doctor if you have diarrhea that lasts more than 2 days or if the diarrhea is severe and watery.
This medicine can interfere with some urine glucose tests. If you use such tests, talk with your health care professional.
If you are being treated for a sexually transmitted disease, avoid sexual contact until you have finished your treatment. Your sexual partner may also need treatment.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
•dark urine
•difficulty breathing, wheezing
•irregular heartbeat
•feeling faint
•fever
•pain or difficulty passing urine
•pain, swelling and irritation at the injection site
•redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
•seizures
•unusual bleeding, bruising
•unusually weak or tired
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•diarrhea
•headache
•nausea, vomiting
•vaginal itch, irritation
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
You will be instructed on how to store this medicine. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date on the label.
Last updated: 7/1/2002
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
