Spectrum: Local Antimicrobial Stewardship, for Saskatchewan Health Authority - Saskatoon Area

Cefotaxime

C. diff Risk

Medium

Oral Bioavailability

NA

Spectrum Of Activity

General Spectrum of Activity

Spectrum Of Activity

Dosing

Renal

Adult

Usual dosing
2g IV q4-12h

Intra-abdominal Infections
1-2g IV q6-8h

Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis
2g IV q8h

Bacterial Meningitis
2g IV q4h

General Information

Common Usage

Common Usage

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.

Adverse Effects

Adverse Effects

  •  Allergy/rash

  •  Phlebitis

  •  Positive Coombs test

  •  Cytopenias

  •  Elevated liver enzymes

  •  Gastro-intestinal intolerance

  •  Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea

Additional Information

Additional Information

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.

Pharmacology

Pharmacology

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