How do you take Cefotaxime (Cefotaxime Sodium)?

This is not a drug you take by yourself at home; it is given as an injection into a muscle or vein by a nurse or doctor. The usual adult dose is 1g to 2g every 6 to 12 hours depending on how serious the infection is. For very serious infections, your doctor may increase the dose up to 12g per day. Always complete the full course your doctor prescribes.

What are the side effects of Cefotaxime (Cefotaxime Sodium)?

Pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site; diarrhea or loose stool; mild rash or itching; nausea or stomach upset; headache

Who should not take Cefotaxime (Cefotaxime Sodium)?

People who are allergic to cefotaxime, other cephalosporin antibiotics, or penicillin-type drugs should not take this medicine. People with severe kidney or liver problems should use it with caution and only under a doctor's close supervision. Inform your doctor if you have a history of gut problems like colitis.

Prescription

Antibiotic (Third-generation Cephalosporin)

Cefotaxime

Q: What is Cefotaxime (Cefotaxime Sodium) used for?

Severe typhoid, serious blood infections (sepsis), meningitis (brain infection), pneumonia, urinary tract infections, bone and joint infections, serious skin infections, infections after surgery, gonorrhea

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?

Cefotaxime is a strong antibiotic injection that kills bacteria by stopping them from building their protective walls, causing them to die. It belongs to the cephalosporin family of antibiotics and works against a wide range of bacterial infections.

How it works

Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins and preventing peptidoglycan cross-linking, leading to bacterial cell lysis and death. This mechanism is effective against a broad spectrum of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms, including many resistant strains.

What is it used for?

Severe typhoidserious blood infections (sepsis)meningitis (brain infection)pneumoniaurinary tract infectionsbone and joint infectionsserious skin infectionsinfections after surgerygonorrhea

Browse by condition

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

Prescription Required

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 injections your doctor prescribed, as stopping early because you feel better can make the infection come back stronger and harder to treat. Only get this injection from a hospital, clinic, or registered pharmacy, never from roadside sellers or unqualified persons. Do not share your prescription with others even if they have similar symptoms.

Common Side Effects

Pain
swelling
or redness at the injection site; diarrhea or loose stool; mild rash or itching; nausea or stomach upset; headache

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction: difficulty breathing
swelling of the face or throat
widespread rash (go to the hospital immediately); severe watery or bloody diarrhea that won't stop (could be a dangerous gut infection); unusual bleeding or bruising
or signs of liver problems like yellowing of the eyes.

Drug Interactions

Aminoglycoside antibiotics like gentamicin can increase the risk of kidney damage when used together, so your doctor should monitor you closely. Blood thinners like warfarin may have increased bleeding risk with cefotaxime. Probenecid (used for gout) can increase cefotaxime levels in your blood. Alcohol should be avoided as it can worsen side effects like nausea.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Cefotaxime 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 cefotaxime
other cephalosporin antibiotics
or penicillin-type drugs should not take this medicine. People with severe kidney or liver problems should use it with caution and only under a doctor's close supervision. Inform your doctor if you have a history of gut problems like colitis.

How to Store

Store the unopened 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, use it immediately or store in a fridge and use within 24 hours. Always keep away from children.

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