Therapeutic Action
Third-generation cephalosporin antibacterial
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Drug reference
Third-generation cephalosporin antibacterial
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In neonates: Bacterial meningitis, in combination with another antibacterial Urinary infection Pneumonia (ampicillin + gentamicin is preferred for this indication) Gonococcal conjunctivitis (if ceftriaxone is not available or contraindicated)
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Do not administer to patients allergic to cephalosporins or penicillins (risk of cross-sensitivity). Administer with caution and reduce dosage in patients with renal impairment. Avoid or monitor combination with other nephrotoxic drugs: amphotericin B, aminoglycosides, pentamidine, etc. May cause: gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhoea, nausea), haematological disorders (neutropenia, leucopenia), heart rhythm disorders if IV injection is too fast, allergic reactions and cutaneous reactions (Stevens-Johnson and Lyell syndromes), sometimes severe.
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Powder for injection, in 250 mg and 500 mg vials, to be dissolved in 2 ml water for injection, for IM or slow IV injection (3 to 5 minutes) or IV infusion (20 to 60 minutes) in 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% glucose.
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Meningitis, urinary infection, pneumonia 0 to 7 days (< 2 kg): 50 mg/kg every 12 hours 0 to 7 days (≥ 2 kg): 50 mg/kg every 8 hours 8 days to < 1 month: 50 mg/kg every 8 hours Gonococcal conjunctivitis 100 mg/kg IM single dose For IV administration, cefotaxime powder can only be dissolved in water for injection. For infusions, each dose of cefotaxime must be dissolved in 5 ml/kg of 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% glucose.
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Depending on indication and clinical response
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Do not mix with other drugs in the same syringe or bottle.
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– – Below 25 °C Once reconstituted, the solution must be used immediately.
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