How do you take Cefepime (Cefepime Hydrochloride)?

This is not a drug you take at home by yourself; it is given as an injection by a doctor or nurse in a hospital or clinic. The usual adult dose is 1g to 2g injected into a vein or muscle every 8 to 12 hours, depending on how serious your infection is. A full course usually lasts 7 to 10 days. Always complete the full course your doctor prescribes, even if you start feeling better.

What are the side effects of Cefepime (Cefepime Hydrochloride)?

Diarrhea or loose stools, rash or skin irritation, pain or swelling at the injection site, nausea or vomiting, headache

Who should not take Cefepime (Cefepime Hydrochloride)?

People who are allergic to cefepime, other cephalosporin antibiotics (like ceftriaxone), or penicillin-type drugs should not take this. People with severe kidney problems need a reduced dose, so tell your doctor about any kidney issues. It should be used with caution in people with a history of seizures.

Prescription

Antibiotic (Fourth-generation Cephalosporin)

Cefepime

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Cefepime is a strong antibiotic (germ-killing medicine) that belongs to the cephalosporin family. It works by stopping bacteria from building their protective walls, which kills them and clears the infection from your body.

How it works

Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) and preventing cross-linking of peptidoglycan, resulting in cell wall disruption and bacterial death. This fourth-generation cephalosporin demonstrates enhanced activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms, including resistant strains.

What is it used for?

Serious bacterial infections, severe pneumonia (chest infection), urinary tract infections (urine infections), skin infections, blood infections (sepsis), typhoid that doesn't respond to regular antibiotics, hospital-acquired infections, bacterial meningitis (brain infection)

Browse by condition

Bacterial Infections Meningitis Sepsis & Severe Infections Skin Infections Throat & Chest Infections Typhoid Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

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You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

Always complete the full course of treatment your doctor prescribed, as stopping early can make the bacteria stronger and harder to treat next time. Only receive this injection from a qualified healthcare professional in a proper hospital or clinic, never from unregistered providers. Do not buy injectable antibiotics from roadside sellers or open markets, as fake or expired drugs are common and very dangerous.

Common Side Effects

Diarrhea or loose stools
rash or skin irritation
pain or swelling at the injection site
nausea or vomiting
headache

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction: difficulty breathing
swelling of face/throat
or widespread rash (rush to the hospital immediately). Seizures or convulsions
especially in people with kidney problems. Severe watery or bloody diarrhea that won't stop
which could be a dangerous gut infection and needs urgent medical attention.

Drug Interactions

Aminoglycoside antibiotics (like gentamicin): using them together can increase the risk of kidney damage, so your doctor will monitor you closely. Blood thinners like warfarin: cefepime can increase their effect and raise your risk of bleeding. Alcohol is best avoided during treatment as it can worsen side effects like nausea and dizziness.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Cefepime should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if your doctor decides the benefit outweighs the risk, so always consult your doctor before use.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to cefepime
other cephalosporin antibiotics (like ceftriaxone)
or penicillin-type drugs should not take this. People with severe kidney problems need a reduced dose
so tell your doctor about any kidney issues. It should be used with caution in people with a history of seizures.

How to Store

Store the dry powder below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity, which is important in Nigeria's hot climate. Once mixed with water for injection, it should be used immediately or refrigerated and used within 24 hours. Always keep out of reach of children.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.