Antimicrobials
Cefoxitin

Cefoxitin

Spectrum of Activity

General Information

30 mg/kg IV/IM q6-8h

Surgical prophylaxis: 20-30 mg/kg IV 30-60 minutes prior to the procedure, followed by 20-30 mg/kg IV every 2 hours if the procedure is still underway

30 mg/kg IV/IM q6-8h

Surgical prophylaxis: 20-30 mg/kg IV 30-60 minutes prior to the procedure, followed by 20-30 mg/kg IV every 2 hours if the procedure is still underway

  • Few indications for use
  • Sometimes used as surgical prophylaxis for intestinal surgeries, where broader Gram negative coverage is desired
  • Potentially useful for some Gram negative infections in lieu of a 3rd generation cephalosporin or fluoroquinolone where parenteral treatment is an option
  • While ESBL-producing bacteria are usually susceptible in vitro, response to treatment in vivo is unpredictable and often poor

Not a true cephalosporin, but is usually classified as a second generation antibacterial agent.

  • Hypersensitivity reactions
  • Patients with renal insufficiency may need dosage adjustments
  • Use in small mammals such as hamsters and guinea pigs may cause enterocolitis

No approved veterinary products in Canada.

Plumb DC. Cefoxitin. Plumb’s Veterinary Drugs. Updated May 2020.