Antimicrobials
Cefotaxime

Cefotaxime

Medium
N/A

Spectrum of Activity

Dosing

General Information

Cefotaxime is commonly used in the treatment of bacterial meningitis, community-acquired pneumonia and intra-abdominal infections.

The spectrum of activity of cefotaxime is similar to that of ceftriaxone but requires multiple daily dosing and renal adjustment. Consider using ceftriaxone as an alternative.

  •  Allergy/rash
  •  Phlebitis
  •  Positive Coombs test
  •  Cytopenias
  •  Elevated liver enzymes
  •  Gastro-intestinal intolerance
  •  Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea

Antimicrobial class: 3rd Generation Cephalosporin

Pregnancy category: B

Average serum half life: 1.5 hours

Biliary penetration: Moderate

CSF penetration: Therapeutic

Lung penetration: Therapeutic

Urine penetration: Therapeutic

The spectrum of activity of cefotaxime is similar to that of ceftriaxone but requires multiple daily dosing and renal adjustment. Consider using ceftriaxone as an alternative.