Cefotaxime
Cefotaxime is a broad-spectrum, third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It acts by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, which leads to cell death. It is highly effective against a wide range of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and is commonly used in hospital settings for serious, systemic infections.
Dosage by Body Weight
Cefotaxime is administered intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM). The dosage must be tailored to the severity of the infection, susceptibility of the causative organism, and the patient's age, body weight, and renal function. Pediatric dosing is typically calculated based on 50 to 180 mg/kg of body weight per day, divided into 3 to 4 equal doses.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- 50 mg/kg per dose
- Frequency
- Every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Commonly used in neonates. Dosage intervals should be adjusted based on gestational and postnatal age under strict medical supervision.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 125 mg to 250 mg
- Frequency
- Every 6 to 8 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Calculated at approximately 100-150 mg/kg/day in divided doses. Higher doses may be used for meningitis.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 200 mg to 375 mg
- Frequency
- Every 6 to 8 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Dose adjusted based on the severity and site of infection. Administered as a slow IV injection or infusion.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 275 mg to 560 mg
- Frequency
- Every 6 to 8 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Administer via IV infusion over 20-30 minutes or by deep intramuscular injection.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 400 mg to 750 mg
- Frequency
- Every 6 to 8 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Must not exceed the maximum adult daily limit of 12 grams per day for highly severe infections.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | 50 mg/kg per dose | Every 8 to 12 hours | Commonly used in neonates. Dosage intervals should be adjusted based on gestational and postnatal age under strict medical supervision. |
| 5-7 kg | 125 mg to 250 mg | Every 6 to 8 hours | Calculated at approximately 100-150 mg/kg/day in divided doses. Higher doses may be used for meningitis. |
| 8-10 kg | 200 mg to 375 mg | Every 6 to 8 hours | Dose adjusted based on the severity and site of infection. Administered as a slow IV injection or infusion. |
| 11-15 kg | 275 mg to 560 mg | Every 6 to 8 hours | Administer via IV infusion over 20-30 minutes or by deep intramuscular injection. |
| 16-20 kg | 400 mg to 750 mg | Every 6 to 8 hours | Must not exceed the maximum adult daily limit of 12 grams per day for highly severe infections. |
Formulation
Purpose
Treatment of severe bacterial infections including lower respiratory tract infections (pneumonia), urinary tract infections, gynecological infections, bacteremia/septicemia, intra-abdominal infections, bone and joint infections, central nervous system infections (meningitis), and surgical prophylaxis.
Generic Name
CefotaximeBranded Drug Names
Cefotaxime is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.