Cefotaxime -- trade name Claforan -- is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic approved by the FDA to treat pneumonia, bone and joint infections, meningitis, septicemia and gynecologic infections such as pelvic inflammatory disease. Off-label uses which are not FDA approved include treatment of Lyme disease, brain abscesses and some sexually transmitted diseases, according to Johns Hopkins POC-IT Center. Cefotaxime is given as an IV infusion via a vein in the arm or as a shot given deep into the muscle.
Common Side Effects
Although generally well tolerated, all antibiotics carry the risk of side effects. According to MedlinePlus, most cefotaxime side effects tend to be mild, and may include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and redness, pain or swelling at the injection site.
Severe Side Effects
Severe side effects are rare but can potentially be life-threatening. Difficulty breathing, itching, hives, unusual bleeding or bruising, and a sore mouth or throat should be reported to a doctor immediately, according to RxList.
According to Drugs.com, patients should also watch for bloody diarrhea or stools, severe tingling, numbness or pain. Seizures, jaundice -- yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes -- fever, irregular heartbeat and decreased urine output should also be reported immediately.
Drug Interactions
Before taking cefotaxime, patients should report all prescription and over-the-counter medications they're currently taking, including vitamins and herbal supplements, to a health care provider. According to MedlinePlus, allergies to other cephalasporins such as Ceclor, Duricef and Keflex should be reported, along with allergies to penicillins or any other drugs.
Cautions
According to MedlinePlus, IV-administered cefotaxime should be stored in a refrigerator and taken out 1 hour before administration to allow it to warm to room temperature. Patients should follow their health care provider's instructions on how to store cefotaxime to be given as an injection. Patients should also monitor IV sites for signs of catheter-related infections, such as tenderness, warmth, irritation or drainage, and should report signs of infection to healthcare provider promptly. Patients should take the medicine as directed and be sure to complete the full course to avoid a rebound infection.
Considerations
According to RxList, cefotaxime should be given cautiously to pregnant women, women who may become pregnant or nursing mothers. Renal function should be monitored closely in patients with a history of decreased renal function, since cefotaxime is cleared through the kidneys. Labwork may be needed to monitor kidney function and drug levels in the blood.
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