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Cefotaxime came onto the scene during the late 1970s. Labs in Europe saw a growing problem: bacteria resistant to earlier antibiotics. Researchers took cephalosporins—originally pulled from a fungus in Italian sewer water—and got to work on new tweaks. They wanted a compound strong against Gram-negative bugs but still safe for people. The result: Cefotaxime, a third-generation cephalosporin that went from petri dish to bedside, quickly shifting hospital practices. Physicians finally had an answer to troublesome infections in both adults and children, and over time saw the impact in lower post-surgical infection rates. Regulatory bodies approved it in record time, given the gravity of the resistance challenge. Since then, the drug’s story reflects the broader struggle with bacteria that keep outsmarting science, underscoring the need for constant innovation.
Cefotaxime hydrochloride appears as a white to pale yellow crystalline powder. You will find it marketed for injection, usually in glass vials sealed tight to keep out moisture. Pharmaceutical suppliers often standardize the dose—commonly 500 mg, 1 g, or 2 g. Approved for intravenous or intramuscular use, the compound dissolves in sterile water just before administration. Most major manufacturers produce it under strict guidelines, stamping vials with clear lot numbers and expiry dates. Pharmacies keep it refrigerated because room temperature shortens its lifespan. Doctors and nurses rely on this drug for cases of sepsis, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, and meningitis, particularly when speed and reliability matter.
Cefotaxime’s molecular formula stands as C16H17N5O7S2Na. The structure features a beta-lactam ring fused with a dihydrothiazine ring—a hallmark of cephalosporins. The sodium salt version dissolves easily in water, making reconstitution in clinical settings quick and straightforward. It has a molecular weight of about 477.5 g/mol with a melting point around 178°C. It does not tolerate excessive light or high humidity, so storage conditions play a key role. Chemists note the molecule’s zwitterionic form, which boosts its movement across bacterial membranes, supporting its strong action against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. The inherent stability to some beta-lactamases gives it a performance edge that older agents just couldn’t match.
A typical cefotaxime vial bears a label that meets strict international standards: product name, dosage strength, batch number, manufacturing and expiry date, manufacturer information, and administration route. Instructions warn not to use the powder if vials show discoloration or moisture inside. Regulatory agencies inspect for heavy metals, sterility, pyrogenicity, and content uniformity. Standards from the U.S. Pharmacopeia, British Pharmacopoeia, and European Pharmacopeia all converge on tight controls. Product inserts lay out preparation methods, recommended doses, known side effects, and contraindications, aiming for patient safety. Hospitals trust these details every day to avoid medication errors—a lesson learned from past tragedies when poor labeling led to overdoses.
Industrial production of cefotaxime builds from 7-aminocephalosporanic acid (7-ACA), a backbone supplied from the fermentation of Acremonium chrysogenum. Chemists start by introducing a methoxyimino moiety at position 7, which blocks the action of certain enzymes that would destroy the drug. They then attach a thiotriazole side chain, which widens the drug’s spectrum. The steps use acylation and esterification, all needing temperatures precisely controlled and solvents kept pure. Purification relies on crystallization and filtration until the product meets pharmacy-grade standards. After chemical processing, facilities sterilize and fill powders into vials under aseptic conditions, with continuous monitoring for both process yield and impurity content. Any failure in quality checks means the batch gets scrapped.
Chemists occasionally modify cefotaxime during research to probe resistance pathways or try for less toxic forms. Hydrolysis of the beta-lactam ring ends its activity, so storage and handling aim to avoid any alkaline or acidic conditions that might break that structure. Some labs attach different side chains, hoping for better activity against specific resistant bacteria; these modifications can change the drug’s binding to bacterial enzymes. Other reactions create labeled analogs for research into how the drug moves in the body. Every adjustment is tested for stability, toxicity, and performance. The molecule’s sensitivity makes such work challenging—yet any new insight here could spark the next jump in antibiotic power.
The market recognizes a whole suite of names for cefotaxime: Claforan, Tax-Oxime, Tarivex, Cefotax. Chemists call it 7-[2-(2-Aminothiazol-4-yl)-2-(methoxyimino)acetamido]-3-acetoxymethyl-3-cephem-4-carboxylic acid sodium salt. Globally, the World Health Organization gives it the International Nonproprietary Name (INN) cefotaxime. Pharmacopoeias in different countries might list slight variations, reflecting their own reference standards. These synonyms play a practical role, as patients treated in different places may see items under varied brand names but need full confidence in the equivalence of the treatments.
Cefotaxime’s manufacture stands under close supervision. Facilities must follow Good Manufacturing Practices, with strict cleaning, material sourcing, and regular documentation checks. Hospitals and clinics keep it away from heat and sunlight, aware of the risk of degradation. Pharmacists warn patients of possible allergic reactions, especially in those with penicillin allergies, and watch for signs of gastrointestinal upset or rash. Nurses double-check the reconstituted solution for particulates or color before giving it. Disposal protocols require respect for environmental impact—antibiotics in wastewater fuel resistance, so take-back programs and incineration are favored. Staff in all settings keep up with training, using checklists and electronic records to lower the risk of dosing errors.
Infection control teams lean on cefotaxime for a wide range of bacterial illnesses: lower respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, bone and joint infections, abdominal infections, and even gonorrhea. Pediatric wards value its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, crucial in treating meningitis. Transplant units and neonatal ICUs put it on the front line for sepsis. Doctors often choose cefotaxime as part of combination therapy, working alongside other antibiotics to target complex infections like those seen in intensive care. Guidelines update with resistance trends, but the drug’s place in empiric therapy remains steady—in part because broad alternatives sometimes bring more side effects, like nephrotoxicity or allergic reactions.
Even after decades on the market, cefotaxime inspires further research. Groups around the world study how bacteria develop resistance. Some try to modify the core structure to outmaneuver extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs)—enzymes that destroy older antibiotics. Clinical studies track efficacy for new strains of bacteria or in newer delivery modes, such as continuous infusion pumps in critical care. There is ongoing interest in new combinations; for instance, pairing cefotaxime with beta-lactamase inhibitors. Researchers publish findings on tissue penetration, duration of action, and patient outcomes, shaping tomorrow’s guidelines. In labs, scientists decode molecular dynamics to predict the next likely direction of resistance, hoping to stay one step ahead in a perpetual arms race.
Safety profiles on cefotaxime are rooted in robust animal and human data. Toxicity testing covers acute, subchronic, and chronic exposure. Researchers dose animals in carefully designed studies–measuring for organ-specific toxicity, mutagenicity, and reproductive effects. Side effects in humans tend to include local pain at injection site, diarrhea, nausea, rash, and, rarely, anaphylactic reactions. Toxicologists pay close attention to rare events like altered blood counts or liver enzyme shifts, which sometimes crop up with chronic use in the hospital. Medical teams report adverse events via monitoring systems allowing early detection of new issues. Down the supply chain, manufacturing workers wear personal protective equipment and monitor for airborne particles to avoid occupational exposure.
The world faces a growing crisis as resistance to antibiotics outpaces the launch of new treatments. Cefotaxime, while no longer brand-new, still provides vital coverage, especially in regions where resistance rates to other options climb fast. Innovations in drug delivery—like extended-release forms or targeted nanoparticles—could keep cefotaxime relevant for another generation. Research into adjunct therapies, such as molecules that block resistance mechanisms, adds another avenue of hope. Policy changes could encourage developers to tweak older molecules for tighter spectra and less collateral damage, slowing the spread of resistance genes. Public health messaging reminds doctors and patients to use these drugs wisely, not for every cough or cold, but reserved for infections that truly demand their firepower. The next chapter for cefotaxime will likely include tighter links between clinical practice, molecular biology, and regulatory oversight, pushing ever closer toward a model where yesterday’s discoveries keep pace with the urgent needs of today.
Hospitals carry a heavy responsibility. Lives sit in their hands every day, and infections hit hard when people are already weakened. Over the years working with care teams and pharmacists, I noticed how Cefotaxime earned its place on every ward’s crash cart. This medicine isn’t a trendy newcomer. It’s a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic doctors trust because it works quickly against bacteria that just shrug off older options.
Let’s get specific. Every winter, children and adults fill emergency rooms with pneumonia. In some cases, bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae don’t budge to first-line antibiotics. Here’s where Cefotaxime swings into action. Its broad spectrum targets gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, including strains that resist penicillin and amoxicillin. This adds real value because delays in switching medicines tip scales toward longer recoveries and even complications.
Meningitis remains another arena where every hour matters. Bacterial meningitis, especially in newborns, can spiral out of control fast. Here, Cefotaxime passes the blood-brain barrier more smoothly than many drugs. In my own experience, neonatologists reach for it alongside other measures because it cuts through tough pathogens like Neisseria meningitidis and Haemophilus influenzae.
Cefotaxime isn’t a silver bullet. Some bugs evolve. Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producers, for example, chew right through it. This is why infectious disease teams run cultures and sensitivity tests. Solutions need to stay dynamic: hospital protocols push for rapid diagnostics so only the right patients receive Cefotaxime.
Clear communication supports this careful approach. Years in the field showed me that the best clinicians only use Cefotaxime when older, narrower-spectrum antibiotics fail. This reduces the risk of sparking more resistance and keeps hospital-acquired infections from spreading through wards. Prescribing habits, hand hygiene, and environmental cleaning all fit together with antibiotic decisions.
Patients deserve honest answers about what goes into their IVs. I always respected doctors who explained why they picked Cefotaxime and why it matters to finish a course, even if symptoms settle fast. Adverse reactions, from mild rashes to stomach upsets, can happen. Education on signs of allergy, monitoring for diarrhea or secondary infections, changes every prescription from a blind gamble to a partnership between medical staff and patient.
The rise of resistance keeps every hospital on its toes. Investments in stewardship, including real-time decision support and data analytics, pull a lot of weight in safeguarding Cefotaxime’s effectiveness. Pharmacies and labs team up, tracking resistance patterns and sharing front-line updates with prescribers. Every dose given thoughtfully buys more time before superbugs change the game yet again.
In the end, Cefotaxime works best as part of a bigger puzzle—a tool backed by collaboration, surveillance, and constant learning. This antibiotic serves as a reminder: science alone doesn’t keep infections in check. People, experience, and vigilance do.
Doctors often reach for antibiotics like cefotaxime to fight tough infections. Hospitals rely on this option for cases like pneumonia, blood infections, and even meningitis. The promise of wiping out bad bacteria gives a sense of security, but every coin has two sides.
I worked in a healthcare setting for years, watching patients receive powerful antibiotics. Cefotaxime brought relief for many, but some felt rough patches along the way. Upset stomach, loose stools, and a rash often announced themselves by day two. One teenager, treated for a severe infection, ended up with such a bad stomach ache that he stopped eating for a day. Turns out, he wasn’t alone. Studies show about one in ten patients report diarrhea or stomach pain during treatment.
Allergic reactions show up, too. Red patches, welts, or swelling around lips or eyes can appear quickly. In rare cases, a person might have breathing trouble or feel their throat closing, which calls for immediate medical help. This echoes stories I’ve heard from my colleagues—one nurse friend had to rush a patient off for help after hives flared up minutes after a cefotaxime dose. The U.S. FDA notes that these reactions—though rare—are serious enough to make anyone pause and reach for the emergency call button.
There’s more behind the curtain. Cefotaxime, like other broad-spectrum antibiotics, throws off the balance of bacteria in the gut. This opens the door to infections from bugs like Clostridioides difficile (C. diff). This bacteria causes relentless diarrhea and, left unchecked, can become life-threatening. I’ve seen patients bounce back from one infection, only to land back in the hospital with severe colitis weeks later—all traced back to antibiotics like cefotaxime.
Lab test results don’t lie either. Some people develop abnormalities in their white blood cell counts or liver enzyme levels. These numbers matter, especially for folks with fragile health or ongoing conditions. My own mother’s chart once lit up with liver enzyme spikes. Her doctor caught it in time, adjusted her medication, and things calmed down. But not every story ends so cleanly—without regular tests, subtle side effects can slip by unnoticed.
There’s a responsibility that comes with every antibiotic prescription. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that at least 30 percent of antibiotics given in clinics are unnecessary. The more we use these medicines, the greater the chance bacteria will fight back. Once resistance sets in, ordinary infections take on a more complicated—and risky—face.
Doctors can help by checking if cefotaxime is really needed, and not just handing out prescriptions for every fever. Patient education goes a long way, too. Anyone prescribed this drug should look out for signs of an allergy, stomach trouble, or unexpected fatigue. Reporting new or worsening symptoms helps keep things on track and prevents outcomes that can spiral.
Pills don’t solve every infection. Some call for rest, fluids, and watchful waiting. Antibiotics work best when reserved for real bacterial threats. Thoughtful use, clear communication, regular lab checks, and good follow-up offer real-world ways to keep patients safer and healthier.
A doctor once told me that antibiotics can tip the scales in critical scenarios. Take cefotaxime, for example. This drug steps in to tackle some nasty infections—think about tough cases like pneumonia, sepsis, and meningitis. How we get it into the body makes a huge difference for the result.
Cefotaxime doesn’t belong on pharmacy shelves at home. It’s designed for a hospital setting. Nurses prepare the dose by mixing the dry powder with a sterile fluid. Using a syringe, they send it straight into the bloodstream or, sometimes, through a slow drip with saline. This direct line helps the drug reach the infection quickly. Giving it as a pill would never give the same punch, since the stomach would break it down and the blood never gets enough of the active drug.
Every hospital shift brings reminders that giving cefotaxime is not just about following instructions. Dosage ramps up and down based on the infection and the person fighting it. Some patients can’t take standard doses: kidney function, age (especially infants and the elderly), and even the bug that’s causing trouble all matter. No two patients look alike in how they respond to the medicine or in how their body cleans it out.
Cefotaxime does good, but nothing works perfectly. Allergies to antibiotics lurk in many family histories—I’ve seen rashes spring up in minutes, and in serious situations, full-scale allergic reactions that push doctors into life-saving mode. Overusing antibiotics puts everyone in a tough spot, too, since it gives bacteria more chances to outsmart us. I remember a ward where we had to switch medicines because the usual choices no longer worked, thanks to bacteria learning to resist them.
Healthcare teams have tools and guidelines to help them get the dose and timing correct, but problems still slip through. Sometimes a busy emergency room misses a dose or delivers it late. Sometimes the fluid isn’t mixed as well as it should be. Even the equipment matters. Once, an old IV line couldn’t keep the medicine flowing at a steady rate, which threw off the timing. All these gaps can shape how well a patient recovers.
Better training for nurses and pharmacy staff goes a long way. Double checks on allergy records, smart barcode systems on meds, and updated dosing calculators help curb mistakes. Hospitals that run through mock drills for emergencies often spot gaps before real lives are on the line. Faster blood test results help doctors fine-tune the dose, picking up on kidney issues before harm sneaks in. Patients or their families can play a role, too: asking questions, speaking up about allergies, and making sure every bag or syringe looks clearly labeled.
Administering cefotaxime makes a difference between life and death for some folks. The technical steps are only part of the story. Real safety comes down to teamwork, awareness, and the willingness to learn from every shift. In crowded hospitals or quiet rural clinics, that’s what keeps a reliable medicine like cefotaxime on the side of hope.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding turn everyday choices into big decisions. Medications can spark endless questions, especially antibiotics like cefotaxime, which doctors reach for in hospitals. This drug isn’t something folks usually talk about at dinner, but its impact stretches far beyond the pharmacy shelf. Infectious diseases don't wait for a more convenient time. Serious bacterial infections can strike during pregnancy or while feeding a newborn, pushing mothers and doctors to weigh risks and make a call that can shape lives.
Cefotaxime sits in the group of “third-generation cephalosporins.” It’s a heavy hitter against infections ranging from pneumonia and urinary tract infections to meningitis. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration assigns it a “Category B” label for pregnancy. That means lab animals showed no risk to babies, but strong testing in humans stays limited. In the real world, emergencies leave little room for perfect solutions.
Pregnant people face higher chances of getting sick during some infections. Their immune system morphs, their bodies shift, and bacteria sometimes take advantage. Unchecked, these infections threaten both the mother and the developing baby. Choosing between a raging infection and a medication comes with no easy answer, but untreated infections have led to preterm labor, low birth weight, and more hospital stays.
Medical teams use cefotaxime mostly when the infection outweighs the risk. Most reports haven’t shown problems for babies whose mothers took cefotaxime. Still, absence of evidence isn’t the same as evidence of absence; there just hasn’t been enough rigorous research in pregnant populations. Proving a drug’s safety in pregnancy takes decades, and for severe infections, doctors turn to antibiotics like this because the alternative holds more risk.
For new mothers, breastfeeding creates its own set of worries. Can medication leak into milk? Will it affect a baby’s gut, growth, or immune system? According to peer-reviewed studies and statements by groups like the American Academy of Pediatrics, cefotaxime does pass into breast milk, but in very tiny amounts. These trace levels usually don’t cause harm. No major toxic effects have shown up in studies on babies whose mothers took cefotaxime. The biggest issue doctors have seen is a mild, temporary shift in the way babies’ guts handle bacteria, not a long-term health problem.
Mothers with sick newborns or preemies sometimes hear to watch for signs of diarrhea, thrush, or a change in feeding, but these side effects tend to be rare. Doctors generally don’t tell mothers to stop breastfeeding just because cefotaxime enters the mix, unless the baby reacts or has a special health issue.
Clear communication goes a long way. Doctors and patients share the responsibility to talk through the reasons for using a tough antibiotic, spell out possible side effects, and watch for warning signs. Since not every health worker or patient has all the latest data at their fingertips, credible sources like the CDC, FDA, and international specialty groups should offer updated guidance everyone can trust.
Researchers should push for more studies focused on pregnant and breastfeeding people, not just healthy adults. In the meantime, pharmacies and clinics benefit from checklists and digital alerts to help double-check drug safety. We owe it to mothers and babies to keep asking the tough questions and demand better answers.
Anyone facing a tough infection in a hospital has probably heard about cefotaxime. This antibiotic steps in when other options just don’t cut it. Known for battling serious bacterial infections, cefotaxime stands out because of its effectiveness, but it doesn’t operate in a vacuum. Many people take more than one medication, and mixing drugs without careful thought can trigger unexpected problems.
Cefotaxime belongs to a group called cephalosporins. With years of use behind it, big clinical trials and hospital reports have helped doctors spot real risks. Research shows this antibiotic generally plays well with most medications. Still, certain drug combinations raise flags.
For example, taking cefotaxime alongside aminoglycoside antibiotics—like gentamicin—can lead to kidney trouble. Both target infections aggressively but can put extra stress on the kidneys, especially in older adults or folks with kidney problems. Health professionals check kidney function before pairing these medicines. Someone on a fluid pill, such as furosemide, should also get regular kidney checks, because both drugs have the potential to strain kidney function.
Blood thinners, like warfarin, create another sticky point. Some studies suggest cephalosporins might increase bleeding risk, especially when baseline clotting is already thin. Not every patient sees this happen, but hospitals don’t gamble with safety. People on warfarin usually get their blood checked more frequently if a strong antibiotic joins their routine.
Calcium-containing solutions add another layer. Chemo patients or those in the ICU may receive calcium intravenously, and combining this with certain antibiotics has, in some rare moments, led to precipitation in the bloodstream. Cefotaxime isn’t as risky as ceftriaxone here, but clinical protocols flag this possibility.
Real patients rarely walk in with a simple medicine list. Diabetes, heart disease, or advanced age means more prescriptions. Every new addition can reshape the full picture. A seemingly harmless antibiotic has a different risk profile in someone taking diuretics or chemotherapy, than it does in a healthy adult fighting a straightforward infection.
I remember seeing an older gentleman come in for pneumonia. His chart looked like a phone book, complete with blood thinners, heart failure drugs, and insulin. Cefotaxime covered the infection, but within days, labs signaled kidney stress. Quick detective work by his pharmacist uncovered the duet of cefotaxime and furosemide. Adjusting the dose—plus watching hydration—brought him back from the edge. That story sticks because it highlighted a simple truth: medicines never act alone.
Communication keeps risks in check. Always tell the doctor or pharmacist every pill, supplement, and vitamin you’re using. Pharmacists often spot potential landmines in a medication routine. Hospitals run computerized checks, but lists change fast if someone adds over-the-counter pain relievers or herbal formulas.
Patients who get their care from different places—family doctors, hospitals, clinics—should keep their records current. A simple printout or smartphone app helps keep everyone on the same page.
Safe antibiotic use means paying attention. With cefotaxime, most interactions are rare or well-known, but an ounce of prevention beats scrambling to fix a mistake. Ultimately, real stories and careful teamwork make medicine safer for everyone.
Cefotaxime treats infections that would otherwise spiral out of control. It comes from the cephalosporin family, which targets bacteria with its unique approach. Unlike penicillin, cefotaxime works on a broader group of germs, so doctors reach for it when regular antibiotics stop working. People land in the hospital with pneumonia, blood infections, or urinary tract infections that don’t respond to other drugs—this is where cefotaxime kicks into action.
Hospitals never really escape the risk of drug-resistant bacteria. I remember working a shift where a patient developed sepsis, and cultures showed bugs that shrugged off amoxicillin and other first-line drugs. In those moments, speed and precision become critical. Cefotaxime typically handles these emergencies because it takes down bacteria like E. coli, Klebsiella, and Streptococcus pneumoniae, including some strains that trick other antibiotics.
This doesn’t mean cefotaxime is some magic shield. Bacteria eventually adapt. Labs now report growing resistance in some hospital wards—one study from the CDC showed an alarming uptick in multi-drug resistant organisms, and doctors point to antibiotic overuse as a culprit. Every injection handed out without clear need pushes us closer to a tipping point where even drugs like cefotaxime lose their punch.
Many patients walk into hospitals carrying complicated infection histories—maybe two weeks of fever, a weak immune system, or chronic wounds that won’t heal. These infections demand quick lab tests and antibiotic decisions. Using cefotaxime too freely only speeds up resistance. Physicians balance the urge to act quickly against a bigger responsibility: making sure this medicine still works for future emergencies, not just today’s urgent case.
Hospitals tackle this with antibiotic stewardship. Infectious disease teams track prescription patterns and hospital labs run regular bacterial testing. It sounds routine, but it’s not always easy. Pressure from patients and time crunches mean doctors sometimes prescribe antibiotics “just in case.” The smarter move relies on accurate diagnosis and confirming that the target bug really needs cefotaxime.
I have seen infection control in action when staff scrub in and out of patient rooms, wear gowns and gloves, and emphasize handwashing. These simple tactics proved more effective than expected. Countless studies back this up; around 30% of antibiotic use in hospitals remains unnecessary, according to data published by the World Health Organization. Cutting abuse starts with hospital teams sticking to established infection control steps and only using cefotaxime and other antibiotics when absolutely needed.
New antibiotics don’t hit pharmacy shelves often, so guarding the effectiveness of what we have isn’t a “nice to have.” Cefotaxime remains a tool worth protecting. Real-world choices, honest patient conversations, and hospital routines all play into whether this medicine will still save lives ten years down the road.
Cefotaxime works hard in hospitals, especially when doctors need a strong antibiotic to fight tough bacterial infections. Many might not think about what unfolds after that IV bag starts dripping, but side effects shape how recovery feels. Health isn’t just numbers and test results. Nausea, aches, allergic rashes—these are real distractions, not just inconveniences. If you’ve ever sat in a chilly hospital room with an upset stomach, every little side effect seems bigger.
I’ve talked with folks on antibiotics and, time and again, they share a few similar stories once cefotaxime kicks in. Stomach troubles pop up more than anything else. Nausea might roll through, or the runs keep you close to a bathroom. Some get that queasy feeling every time food is mentioned. Change in taste can surprise people, making favorite meals less appealing. These stomach annoyances affect appetite and energy, making it harder to bounce back.
Skin rashes show up in some situations. The itchy red patches can cover a bit of skin or sometimes more. These allergic signs call for action because nobody wants a simple rash to spiral into trouble like swelling or tightness in the throat. Doctors watch out for this because allergic reactions can get serious fast. At times, a spot here or a spot there seems harmless, but for a few, it becomes a health emergency.
Blood counts sometimes shift, too. White blood cells may drop. This isn’t something you see in the mirror, but I’ve heard the frustration when a doctor walks in to say, “Your counts fell again.” It throws a wrench into progress, leading to extra blood tests and anxiety. Some even bruise or bleed a bit more if platelets drop. Being informed about these changes helps avoid surprise and reminds people to speak up if something doesn’t feel right.
Pain at the injection site is almost a given. A needle in the arm doesn’t stop hurting just because it’s a hospital. Stinging, swelling, or a warm patch—these reminders don’t disappear quietly. Nurses often try to pick good veins and rotate spots, yet pain sometimes lingers.
The FDA keeps safety on the radar by tracking all these experiences. The most current drug labels point out these same problems because real people keep reporting them. Rashes and stomach disruptions top the list, followed by less common but serious effects like seizures in very rare cases—usually in those with kidney issues. Staying hydrated and reporting odd symptoms helps, especially in the first few days. If diarrhea turns bloody or keeps coming, seeking help fast becomes essential, as it might signal something more serious, like C. difficile infection.
Cefotaxime serves as a lifeline in infection care. Open sharing with healthcare workers goes a long way toward managing side effects. Reporting odd skin changes or stomach cramps isn’t petty—it’s protective. Friends and caregivers can support with small acts: bringing easy-to-digest meals, asking how someone feels after a dose, and encouraging rest. Medical teams work smarter with honest feedback. Catching side effects early and tweaking the care plan reduces risk for everyone. More than facts and figures, real stories remind us that side effects deserve respect and action.
Cefotaxime steps onto the medical scene as a trusted antibiotic. Many hospitals turn to it during tough infections when oral antibiotics can’t quite get the job done. My first brush with it happened during a nasty case of pneumonia that landed a close friend in the hospital. After a quick diagnosis, the doctor said, “We’re starting him on intravenous cefotaxime.” Right there, I realized how much the delivery of the drug matters.
Cefotaxime doesn't come as an easy-to-swallow pill. Injectable form is the mainstay here. Hospitals often use it for chest infections, serious urinary tract infections, and meningitis. Nurses mix the powder with sterile water, then deliver it through a vein or, sometimes, a muscle. Nearly every dose gets pushed in slowly or infused over half an hour so bodies can handle it without trouble. Injections, either into a vein or muscle, take skill—this isn’t the kind of medicine you handle at home unless a nurse or trained family member is around.
Severe infections need steady blood levels of the drug, fast. Oral drugs break down in the gut, delay the process, and can’t always reach the infection site. With injections, cefotaxime heads straight into the bloodstream. That quick action can make the difference in a patient turning a corner. In my friend’s case, the fever dipped within a few hours after the first dose.
Mixing and dosing take precision. Too much and kidneys can struggle; too little and bacteria survive. Nurses watch for allergies, changes in bloodwork, and look out for pain or swelling around the injection site. The pain of an intramuscular injection is real—patients talk about the burning sensation, though the benefit far outweighs the discomfort. Hospitals regularly update staff on safe techniques because skipping steps can bring real harm.
Antibiotics like cefotaxime save lives, but misuse carries a price. Taking a shortcut with the dose or stopping early doesn’t just hurt one person—it helps resistant bacteria gain ground. Just last year, reports from the CDC noted a bump in resistant “superbugs” tied to incomplete antibiotic courses. Hospitals now run audits and check prescription records to catch problems early and keep resistance in check. Thoughtful administration supports both patients and future generations.
Doctors now turn to rapid lab tests to pinpoint which infections really need cefotaxime. Researchers search for quicker ways to identify resistant bacteria, so prescriptions match the problem. The future calls for close teamwork between pharmacists, nurses, and doctors. With better communication, the right dose lands at the right time. Medical students learn about cefotaxime’s careful handling before they ever put on a white coat.
Families facing hospital stays sometimes worry about needles and unknown names. Still, knowing a bit more about how cefotaxime is given—and why it demands a thoughtful touch—goes a long way in bringing peace of mind, and maybe faster healing, too.
Life rarely slows down for illness, especially during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Many women face tough decisions about medicines at these times. Cefotaxime, a common antibiotic used for everything from pneumonia to urinary infections, often comes up in these conversations. Expectant or new mothers want to get better fast, but nobody wants to take a risk with a baby’s health. So where does cefotaxime really stand?
Doctors prescribe antibiotics during pregnancy only when the benefit outweighs the risk. Cefotaxime has been studied for decades and falls under what doctors usually call a safer choice among the stronger antibiotics. Based on both animal studies and years of real-world experience, no widespread birth defects have been linked to cefotaxime use. The medication doesn’t seem to cause problems with how a baby develops in the womb.
Still, cefotaxime does cross the placenta. That means it moves from the mother’s bloodstream into the baby’s, so doctors pay close attention to reasons for prescribing it. If a mother has a stubborn infection—something like a kidney infection or a severe lung infection—leaving it untreated poses far greater danger to both mom and baby than any rare concern tied to cefotaxime. Common sense and real-life data both suggest that a bad infection can lead to premature birth or worse outcomes. Rapid treatment with a targeted antibiotic matters, and cefotaxime often fits the bill because it zeroes in on many bacteria while showing a low risk of side effects.
Once the baby is born, mothers face a new set of questions, especially if they plan to breastfeed. There’s a natural worry about drugs passing into milk. Cefotaxime does appear in breast milk, but in extremely low amounts. Dozens of studies, along with decades of use, have failed to show any sign that cefotaxime harms babies receiving mother’s milk. Newborns process these tiny antibiotic traces quickly.
Problems like diarrhea or changes in gut bacteria have appeared in rare cases, but these don’t compare to the problems untreated maternal infection can bring. If doctors recommend cefotaxime for a nursing mother, they weigh the need for infection control against the slim chance of tummy upset for the infant.
Doctors aim to protect both mother and baby, making each call count. They pull from guidelines built on thousands of patients. In the United States, organizations like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advise using beta-lactam antibiotics—including cefotaxime—when the situation calls for real firepower against infection. They know untreated infections such as pyelonephritis or sepsis threaten lives.
This doesn’t open the door to overusing antibiotics, since bacteria can become resistant. Except for life-threatening infections, many doctors reach for more familiar or narrower-spectrum antibiotics first. If cefotaxime sits at the top of the treatment ladder, it's because the infection proves stubborn or the bacteria involved don’t respond to other drugs.
Health professionals don’t simply hand out cefotaxime at the first sniffle. Careful discussions guide these choices. At every step, open communication helps—expectant and nursing mothers should feel free to ask about alternatives, possible side effects, and the latest research. Lactation consultants, pharmacists, and infectious disease specialists often team up to review each case, helping families feel comfortable with the path forward.
Access to up-to-date information is valuable here. Groups like the CDC or the World Health Organization review guidelines each year, tied to new research. Patients picking up a prescription can check in with resources like LactMed, which breaks down what scientists know about most drugs and breastfeeding.
Clear explanations and shared decisions build trust. It’s worth remembering that cefotaxime has walked a long road of study, and most experts agree on its safety profile for mothers and babies when needed. Personal experience, stories from patients, and medical facts all point in the same direction: properly used, cefotaxime treats infections quickly without lasting harm. No medicine erases all concern, but having clear, honest answers helps parents focus on what matters most—keeping everyone healthy.
Doctors prescribe cefotaxime to treat some pretty serious infections. It belongs to the cephalosporin family, a powerful tool against bacteria that threaten people’s health. Like most strong antibiotics, cefotaxime can cross paths with other medicines. When that happens, results range from harmless to downright harmful. If you know what to watch out for, you can often prevent bigger problems down the road.
People who end up in the hospital often have more than one thing going on with their health. Sometimes, they’re already taking medicine for other issues—blood thinners, diuretics, or kidney drugs. These medicines may not always play nice with cefotaxime. For example, combining cefotaxime with blood thinners like warfarin may increase the risk of bleeding. It messes with how the liver processes those drugs, making the blood thinner more potent. Routine lab checks—prothrombin time or INR—help spot trouble before it turns dangerous.
Another one to watch: water pills, especially furosemide. Both medicines can put stress on the kidneys. Combining them in someone whose kidneys already have a tough job can turn a short treatment into a longer recovery. Labs like creatinine and blood urea nitrogen often show the earliest signs of damage. Medical teams usually look at those numbers closely before changing up a patient’s treatment plan.
Some folks living with epilepsy or chronic seizures need anticonvulsants such as valproate. Cefotaxime may decrease valproate levels, raising the chances of breakthrough seizures. This isn’t something you feel right away. Sudden changes may only show up if someone starts having seizures after a long streak of stability. Close monitoring, especially in children or those with hard-to-control seizures, can keep things on track.
With vaccines, certain live vaccines should not be given alongside any strong antibiotics. Cefotaxime may lower the immune response, making vaccines like typhoid oral less effective. Sometimes, the safer move is to finish antibiotics first, then come back for the shot.
Transparency between healthcare providers and patients makes a difference. Every time someone starts a new prescription, especially in hospitals or emergency rooms, the medical team should review current medicines. Pharmacies can help by using electronic systems that flag dangerous mixes before they even reach the bedside or home. It helps if patients keep an updated list of their medicines—written down, on a phone, or in a wallet—especially those who see more than one doctor.
Lab checks don’t just catch kidney or liver trouble—they provide a window into how the body handles medicine. If someone’s staying in the hospital for infection, doctors can change the plan quickly if labs show signs of problems. Outpatient clinics sometimes don’t have the luxury of daily updates, but even one check early on can spot red flags before things spiral out of control.
Years of caring for folks battling infections and juggling chronic diseases have shown me this: no medicine acts in a vacuum. Each person’s situation shapes those risks and rewards. Communication, repeat checks, and learning from past mishaps help prevent new ones. Putting people’s safety first takes more than knowing which medicines clash—it means listening, asking good questions, and not rushing through the process. Nobody wants to swap one problem for another.
Cefotaxime saves lives, but steering clear of unwanted drug interactions saves even more.Cefotaxime almost always comes up in discussions among doctors handling tough infections. People land in the hospital with severe pneumonia, urinary tract infections that refuse to clear, or cases of meningitis. In my experience covering stories from local hospitals, pharmacists and physicians trust this antibiotic when they’re facing bacteria that no longer respond to the old standards.
Cefotaxime falls into a family called cephalosporins, and its specialty lies in treating serious infections caused by certain bugs that have developed resistance to other antibiotics. The World Health Organization lists it as an essential medicine for a reason. In one local hospital, I watched a team discuss how they pick cefotaxime after checking which bacteria are triggering the infection, and whether less powerful drugs have any chance. Most often, it’s the go-to for complicated lung, abdominal, joint, blood, or nervous system infections.
Unlike simple penicillin, cefotaxime takes on bacteria that have gotten wise to standard treatments. It’s powerful against gram-negative bacteria such as E. coli and Klebsiella but covers many gram-positive organisms too. This broad spectrum means doctors can start therapy quickly when time is tight.
Still, it makes sense to use cefotaxime only when necessary. Overuse not only drives new resistance but also wipes out helpful bacteria in the body. In the stories I’ve covered, infection control teams always talk about balancing swift action and conservation. That judgment call can mean life or death—an untreated bloodstream infection moves fast—yet throwing cefotaxime at every fever leaves us in trouble down the road.
Just as with other “last-resort” antibiotics, indiscriminate use erodes cefotaxime’s power. Resistant organisms, including those carrying the ESBL gene, have started to crop up more frequently in hospitals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that more than two million Americans battle resistant bacteria each year, and many of those emergencies started with well-intended but unnecessary antibiotic use.
A doctor I once interviewed said, “You don’t want to be stuck without a weapon when someone is dying of sepsis”—and that’s really the crux of the matter. Cefotaxime can cut infection short, especially in meningitis or sepsis. But if resistance spreads unchecked, the world risks entering an era where staying ahead of infections becomes far more complicated and more expensive.
Hospitals need to promote careful stewardship—reviewing prescriptions, using cultures to target therapy, and avoiding antibiotics for viral illnesses. These steps save cefotaxime for times when it truly counts. At the policy level, support for research into new antibiotics delivers hope for the future. Doctors also encourage patients to finish prescribed courses and refrain from pushing for antibiotics when symptoms don’t fit bacterial infection.
Cefotaxime matters because serious bacterial infections can turn deadly with astonishing speed. By protecting its effectiveness, everyone—doctors, patients, and policymakers—shares responsibility for keeping this medication in the toolkit for years to come.
Cefotaxime shows up a lot in hospitals and clinics, especially for tackling infections that just don’t quit. Doctors lean on it for tough bacterial cases, from chest to urinary infections, and it often works when other antibiotics come up short. With regular use, folks worry about what it does to the body beyond clearing out germs. Even if Cefotaxime helps people recover, there’s always a flip side to taking strong drugs.
Stomach trouble ranks high. From my time working at a pharmacy counter, it seemed like every other person on a strong antibiotic complained about gut problems. With Cefotaxime, loose stools, mild diarrhea, or a grumbly stomach are almost expected. Nausea slips in, sometimes followed by rare vomiting. Older folks often notice the changes faster, since their systems can be more sensitive.
Pain at the injection site is another common complaint. Many patients frown at the thought of yet another jab in the arm or hip. Soreness, redness, or even a hard lump sometimes develops where the medicine goes in. These aches fade soon after treatment ends, but during a hospital stay, the discomfort gets plenty of attention.
Allergists and emergency docs always keep an eye out for allergic reactions with antibiotics. Rashes or itching can flare up, even after only a dose or two. Hives, swelling of lips or tongue, or shortness of breath call for fast medical help. Folks who react badly to penicillin take extra care with Cefotaxime, since the two drugs are cousins in the antibiotic family.
Sometimes Cefotaxime messes with blood cells. Less white blood cells or platelets can pop up on blood tests, leaving people with tiredness or easier bruising. Nurses and doctors order regular blood work partly for this reason—nobody wants to miss early signs of trouble. Rarely, long courses start to hit liver or kidney function, a risk that grows for people already struggling with those organs.
Fungal infections sometimes follow a strong round of antibiotics. Killing off good bacteria can open the door for yeast to move in. People notice mouth sores, white patches in the mouth, or itching in sensitive areas. Telling your nurse or doctor early keeps small problems from snowballing.
Open conversations help the most. Patients who share any odd symptoms, even if they seem small, give caregivers more data to work with. Taking note of every ache, rash, or bathroom change helps doctors catch issues before they become emergencies. Bringing up medicine allergies ahead of time lets people pick safer options when possible.
Simple habits matter too. Drinking plenty of water helps the kidneys keep up with harder work during antibiotic use. Eating foods rich in probiotics—or at least talking about it with a healthcare provider—sometimes eases stomach symptoms. Sticking to doctor’s orders on timing and dose can head off trouble before it starts.
No antibiotic works without risks. Knowing the common effects and speaking up makes treatment safer for everyone. As drugs like Cefotaxime keep showing up in hospital toolkits, patients and doctors benefit from honest, experience-driven conversations about how these medicines feel—and what can be done to make recovery a little smoother.
Cefotaxime belongs to a group of antibiotics called cephalosporins. Doctors often reach for this medication to fight off stubborn bacterial infections—especially those that flare up in the lungs, urinary tract, bones, joints, and the nervous system. It’s a strong tool when infections threaten to spiral fast. Yet like any potent tool, its handling can make a big difference in outcomes.
Cefotaxime doesn’t come as a pill. Health workers deliver it straight into a vein (IV) or sometimes into muscle (IM). This direct approach pushes the medicine fast into the bloodstream, making sure tough bacteria don’t get a head start. Adults, for serious infections, usually require an IV drip or intermittent injections every six to eight hours. Severe cases call for higher and regular doses. For kids, the calculation shifts—doses depend on weight and age, so it really pays to weigh young patients carefully.
Time matters with antibiotics. Missed doses or wrong timing can give bacteria the upper hand. My experience in clinics showed that mistakes like these often crop up late at night or during staff handovers. Even simple routines, like setting alarms or double checks on the ward, can make the difference between success and setback.
Nurses or pharmacists mix the powder with sterile water or saline before using Cefotaxime. Proper mixing prevents burning or pain during the injection. If going into a vein, slow pushes avoid clots and complications. If shooting into muscle, the upper outer quadrant of the buttocks tends to be less sore and less likely to hit nerves. Staff training should be hands-on, not just lectures. Watching someone skilled mix and give IV antibiotics left a stronger impression on me during training than any written protocol.
No one wants to see an allergic reaction—rash, swelling, or worse, trouble breathing. People with penicillin allergies face higher risk. In real clinic scenarios, careful questioning about drug allergies makes a genuine difference. Patients in a rush might brush off those questions, but slowing down for a thorough history can prevent big problems down the road.
Using Cefotaxime just because it's available can backfire. Overuse fuels drug-resistant bacteria. The CDC warned about this nearly every year, and personal experience highlights the worry. In places where cefotaxime is handed out casually or without clear infection signs, resistance spreads fast. Holding off until lab results confirm a bacterial cause supports better medicine. Hospitals can help by having guidelines posted and regularly reviewed. Doctors do better with quick lab feedback and pharmacy support.
Cefotaxime saves lives; sloppy use steals some of that power back. Checking allergies, weighing patients accurately, getting the dose and the schedule right—all these small steps pile up to safer care. Modern medicine has a toolbox of treatments, but each one delivers best when used thoughtfully. Skilled hands, not rushed ones, protect patients and keep antibiotics like Cefotaxime working in the years ahead.
Expecting mothers deal with all kinds of questions and emotions, especially around medicine. Antibiotics spark more anxiety because mothers worry about the baby’s growth or what might transfer through breast milk. Over the years, doctors leaned on facts and experience to decide what’s safe.
Cefotaxime comes from the cephalosporin family of antibiotics. Hospitals use it to fight off serious infections, like pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and dangerous blood infections. Medical staff pick it when other antibiotics fall short or bacteria turn stubborn. It’s a heavy-duty tool because it can save lives when a quick fix really matters.
Doctors usually turn to reliable sources—think major health agencies or peer-reviewed research—when advice is up in the air. Cefotaxime has been tested in animal studies, and so far, those did not show damage to developing babies at typical doses. Human data looks limited, but the reports that exist do not show a high risk of birth defects or miscarriage.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists cefotaxime under drugs probably safe in pregnancy—at least, when no better options exist. There are times a mother just cannot wait out an infection, and untreated illness poses more danger than most medications. Severe urinary tract infections or pneumonia increase risk for early labor or baby growth problems. Protecting the baby sometimes comes down to curing the mother. Clinical teams tend to weigh each case, matching the treatment to the situation. In my own family, we trusted doctors with these choices when antibiotics made the difference.
Most young mothers hope to breastfeed, so it’s no surprise concerns bubble up about medicine in breast milk. Studies show very low levels of cefotaxime in breast milk—much less than the amount used to treat newborns directly. Babies rarely show side effects when mothers receive cefotaxime. Some reports mention mild diarrhea or diaper rash, but these fade quickly once the medicine clears out.
Groups like the American Academy of Pediatrics consider this antibiotic okay for breastfeeding mothers, as long as the baby gets checked for any changes in feeding or stool. Pediatricians remind mothers to share concerns or notice any unexpected changes.
Health isn’t always a straight path when it comes to antibiotics. Cefotaxime remains a trusted option in emergencies or stubborn infections, even during pregnancy or while nursing. That trust does not grow by accident; it reflects years of careful study, open conversations, and honest reporting of results. Most importantly, using it responsibly protects both mothers and their children.
The safer road involves listening to doctors, giving honest medical histories, and staying alert to any reactions in mother or baby. Open communication, smart diagnosis, and trust in evidence help families get through illness while protecting new life at the same time.
The debate on safety always circles back to one thing: real people facing hard choices. Evidence matters, but so does care, caution, and asking plenty of good questions. That’s what keeps families safer.
Hospital hallways hum with beeping machines, the quick footsteps of nurses, and the quiet hope people hang onto when antibiotics get started. Cefotaxime, one of the more common “big gun” antibiotics doctors reach for, works by cracking bacterial armor. Anyone who’s ever gotten a prescription in a hospital setting knows antibiotics often march in with other medications at the same time. The trouble doesn't always come from the bacteria—sometimes, it comes from the pills taken together.
Mixing antibiotics isn’t like tossing socks in a laundry basket. Some combos cause real trouble. With cefotaxime, one drug on the red-flag list is aminoglycosides. This group, which includes gentamicin and amikacin, puts extra pressure on the kidneys. Folks already grappling with weak kidneys pay the price, sometimes years down the road. If doctors give these together, kidney function needs checking. There’s a clear reason: kidneys won’t always complain until the damage is deep.
Then there’s loop diuretics—think furosemide. Hospitals use these for heart failure and swollen ankles, but they also nudge the kidneys toward trouble. Stack these with cefotaxime, especially for someone older, and risk increases. Most nurses and pharmacists in a hospital setting keep a close eye on how much urine someone’s making, since that's sometimes how the first clues show up.
Blood-thinners like warfarin also get tangled up with cefotaxime. The antibiotic changes the gut’s bacteria, which play a vital part in making vitamin K. Mess with vitamin K, and warfarin’s effects become a moving target—sometimes blood thins too fast, sometimes not enough. Bleeding gums and bruises can sneak up fast.
Doctors run tests before putting patients on cefotaxime and always scan the medication list for surprises. There’s a hidden world of drugs known for affecting how the liver or kidneys break down medicine. Probenecid, sometimes used for gout, slows down how quickly cefotaxime leaves the body. This sounds beneficial, but levels in the blood get higher, side effects tag along, and dosing turns trickier.
A few epilepsy medications, like phenytoin, can see blood levels shift unexpectedly. Seizures or confusion follow if the monitoring isn’t tight. For someone already balancing a stack of medicines, every addition feels like a juggling act, and the safety net matters.
In the real world, pharmacists, doctors, and nurses spend hours cross-checking charts to stop these problems before they start. Their work reminds me of catching errors in my own job—sometimes you see the potential for harm just in time. Once, a hospitalized older patient with heart failure started collecting more medications than most people have in their life. A thoughtful pharmacist noticed the new antibiotic order—cefotaxime—was piling up with furosemide and gentamicin. They flagged the combination, had the team check kidney labs twice as often, and changed the doses. That teamwork kept a real problem from taking root.
Open conversation helps. Bringing an accurate, handwritten list of medicines to clinic appointments makes life easier for everyone. Telling the truth about over-the-counter pills and supplements avoids surprises. Pharmacists, with their encyclopedic memory for drug names and combinations, have saved more than one patient from a rough week in the hospital. Making sure they know the full story keeps everyone a little safer.
Too often, people brush off drug interaction warnings, thinking nothing will happen. Most times, that’s true—until it isn’t. Even one close call proves it’s worth paying attention.
| Names | |
| Preferred IUPAC name | (6R,7R)-7-{[2-(2-aminothiazol-4-yl)-2-(methoxyimino)acetyl]amino}-3-acetoxymethyl-8-oxo-5-thia-1-azabicyclo[4.2.0]oct-2-ene-2-carboxylic acid |
| Other names |
Claforan CTX Cefotax Cefotiam Taxim |
| Pronunciation | /ˌsiː.fəˈtæk.siːm/ |
| Preferred IUPAC name | (6R,7R)-7-[2-(2-Aminothiazol-4-yl)-2-methoxyiminoacetamido]-3-acetoxymethyl-8-oxo-5-thia-1-azabicyclo[4.2.0]oct-2-ene-2-carboxylic acid |
| Other names |
Claforan Cefotax Cefotaxime Sodium |
| Pronunciation | /ˌsɛfəˈtæk.siːm/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | [63527-52-6] |
| Beilstein Reference | 91487 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:3500 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL636 |
| ChemSpider | 5281 |
| DrugBank | DB00493 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 03d2f8e5-73aa-4697-95b7-417634166aae |
| EC Number | EC 620-803-4 |
| Gmelin Reference | 3502329 |
| KEGG | D00254 |
| MeSH | D013635 |
| PubChem CID | 60639 |
| RTECS number | WX2XI06A9Y |
| UNII | 1K4C3G04TX |
| UN number | UN3077 |
| CAS Number | 63527-52-6 |
| Beilstein Reference | 14227470 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:3526 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL: CHEMBL457 |
| ChemSpider | 2157 |
| DrugBank | DB00493 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 100.051.927 |
| EC Number | 613-233-4 |
| Gmelin Reference | 78497 |
| KEGG | D00270 |
| MeSH | D013635 |
| PubChem CID | 5479530 |
| RTECS number | WX2080000 |
| UNII | Q4L239F8VH |
| UN number | UN2811 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C16H17N5O7S2 |
| Molar mass | 477.5 g/mol |
| Appearance | White to yellow, crystalline powder |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | 0.78 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in water | Freely soluble in water |
| log P | -1.56 |
| Acidity (pKa) | 2.1 |
| Basicity (pKb) | 2.59 |
| Dipole moment | 2.21 D |
| Chemical formula | C16H17N5O7S2 |
| Molar mass | 455.477 g/mol |
| Appearance | White to yellow, crystalline powder |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | 1.6 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in water | Soluble in water |
| log P | -1.55 |
| Acidity (pKa) | 2.1 |
| Basicity (pKb) | 2.45 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | Diamagnetic |
| Dipole moment | 3.98 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 250.6 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -340.7 kJ/mol |
| Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298) | -362.8 kJ/mol |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | Std molar entropy (S⦵298) of Cefotaxime is 505.9 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298) | -564.8 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | J01DD01 |
| ATC code | J01DD01 |
| Hazards | |
| Main hazards | Causes mild skin irritation; may cause allergic reactions; harmful if injected or inhaled; may cause respiratory tract irritation. |
| GHS labelling | GHS05, GHS07 |
| Pictograms | lactation, prescription, injection, powder |
| Signal word | Warning |
| Hazard statements | Hazard statements: May cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled. May cause an allergic skin reaction. |
| Precautionary statements | Precautionary statements: Store below 25°C. Protect from light. Keep out of reach of children. Use only as directed by a physician. |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 2-1-0 |
| Flash point | 81.2°C |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD₅₀ (mouse, IV): 850 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (median dose) of Cefotaxime: "more than 8 g/kg (mouse, intravenous) |
| NIOSH | WH7000000 |
| PEL (Permissible) | 500 µg/g |
| REL (Recommended) | 1 g every 8 hours |
| Main hazards | May cause allergic reactions, gastrointestinal disturbances, and injection site reactions. |
| GHS labelling | GHS07, GHS08 |
| Pictograms | Injection |
| Signal word | Warning |
| Hazard statements | Hazard statements: Harmful if swallowed. May cause an allergic skin reaction. Causes serious eye irritation. May cause respiratory irritation. |
| Precautionary statements | Keep out of reach of children. If medical advice is needed, have product container or label at hand. Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national/international regulations. |
| Flash point | Flash point: 267.5 °C |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD50 (mouse, IV): 8000 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (median dose): 2370 mg/kg (intraperitoneal, mouse) |
| NIOSH | WY1900000 |
| PEL (Permissible) | 0.05 mg/m³ |
| REL (Recommended) | 1 g every 12 hours |
| IDLH (Immediate danger) | Not Listed |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds |
Cefpodoxime Ceftazidime Ceftriaxone Cefuroxime Cefalexin Cefepime |
| Related compounds |
Cefotaxime sodium Desacetylcefotaxime Ceftriaxone Cefuroxime Ceftazidime Cefepime |
