What Is Cefotaxime?

Cefotaxime is an injectable antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as meningitis and gonorrhea. It is available in most countries by prescription only and may be known by different trade names in different countries, according to manufacturer. It is a third generation cephalosporin and is a broad spectrum antibiotic active against many Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms.

The mechanism of action of cefotaxime is the interruption of cell wall synthesis of the bacteria. This causes the bacteria to not be able to keep out foreign bodies or retain vital components, thereby killing it. Cefotaxime is used to treat bacterial infections affecting numerous parts of the body including the respiratory tract, urinary tract, central nervous system (CNS) and skin. The treating doctor may take a sample from the patient, such as blood, urine, sputum or spinal fluid, to check sensitivity of the organism. It may also be used to treat uncomplicated gonorrhea and may be given pre-operatively to minimize the chance of intra-operative infections.

The dose, regularity of dosing and duration of treatment of cefotaxime depends on the infection being treated. Whether it is used as an intravenous injection or intramuscularly also depends on the infection. The full course of cefotaxime must be completed to minimize the risk of developing resistance. When used to treat gonorrhea, the dose is usually given as a one time intramuscular injection. If used prophylactically during surgery, such as with Cesarean Sections, it is given during the procedure followed by two additional doses.

As with any medication, there may be contraindications to the use of cefotaxime in some patients. For this reason, any underlying clinical conditions or medicines being taken concomitantly, including prescription, over-the-counter, homeopathic and complementary medications, should be discussed with the prescribing doctor before commencing treatment. The risks of cefotaxime include the possibility of an allergic reaction, especially in patients who are allergic to penicillin, so this must be discussed with the doctor. In patients with renal failure, the dose of cefotaxime may need to be adjusted.

The side effects of cefotaxime may include skin reactions, allergic reactions, headache, dizziness and gastrointestinal side effects, although these seem to occur less frequently than in patients taking penicillins. In most cases it is given to patients in the hospital but, in the case of both in-patient or out-patient use, any adverse effects should be reported to the prescribing doctor immediately. In the case of an allergic reaction, a MedicAlert® bracelet is recommended.