cefotaxime

Cefotaxime can be used to treat serious infections caused by bacteria. These include infections in the lungs, stomach, blood, bones, joints, skin, urinary tract, pelvis, and brain and spinal cord (e.g., meningitis). It's also sometimes given to treat certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In addition, you might receive it to prevent infection before certain surgeries involving the uterus, stomach, and urinary tract.

Cefotaxime works by preventing bacteria that's causing an infection from creating their protective outer layer. This results in the death of the bacteria, which should make the infection go away.

Cefotaxime is given as an injection through the veins or into the muscle, depending on your dose and how serious your infection is. It's usually given to people in the hospital by healthcare providers. But, depending on the infection and other factors, some people might be able to use cefotaxime at home under instructions from their provider.

Cefotaxime is typically well tolerated with few side effects. The most common side effect of cefotaxime is a reaction at the injection site including pain, tenderness, and inflammation. Injections into the vein can also cause a reaction resulting in rash, itching, and fever. Some people taking cefotaxime might have stomach-related side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Cefotaxime can sometimes cause serious allergic reactions which include a rash, itchy skin, hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your face or mouth. Because of this, it should be used carefully in people with a history of allergic reactions to cephalosporin or penicillin antibiotics. This medication might also cause problems with the rhythm of your heart when given in a specific way. Cefotaxime, along with most other antibiotics, can cause severe diarrhea that's due to a bacteria known as Clostridioides difficile (C. diff). This reaction can be life-threatening if not treated.