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Side Effects of Cefotaxime

Cefotaxime, frequently sold under the brand name Claforan, is a drug used to prevent and treat a number of bacterial infections. Users of Cefotaxime may experience numerous side effects ranging from mild to severe, depending upon the dosage and other variables.

  1. Identification

    • Cefotaxime is a prescription drug classified as a cephalosporin antibiotic that treats severe life-threatening infections arising after surgery. Cefotaxime is most frequently used in post-op situations, but can also be used before or during surgery as a preventative measure. Cefotaxime is also useful in cases of bacterial infection not associated with surgery.

    Common Side Effects

    • Cefotaxime causes a few common side effects including headache, nausea, vomiting and mild diarrhea. Though common and less serious than other side effects, the persistence or intensifying of one or multiple side effects from the above list signals a more serious problem. In such an event, seek immediate medical attention.

    Serious Side Effects

    • According to Drugs.com, users of Cefotaxime have experienced the following serious side effects: fever, irregular heartbeat, pain and swelling at the injection site, bloody stool, irregular urination, yellowing of the skin, seizures, severe skin irritation or rash, severe nausea, stomach pain, severe vomiting, easy bleeding or bruising, white patches in the mouth and tiredness. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea occur in about 1.4 percent of patients. Headache and seizures occur in less than 1 percent of cases. Allergic reaction, including severe swelling of the face or throat, may also occur as a result of treatment. Contact your doctor immediately in the case of any of the preceding side effects.

    Usage

    • Cefotaxime should be used exactly as prescribed by a doctor. Cefotaxime is taken as an injection. You should not shake the mixture before use. Be sure to rotate injection sites to avoid scarring. Do not attempt injection if you are not specifically clear about the injection protocol. If injecting at home, make sure to mix thoroughly, use clean needles every time and store the medication in a refrigerator.

    Warning

    • Cefotaxime should never be used to treat viral infections. Long term use of the product can lead to a second infection. Use with extreme caution in the elderly and children under 10. If pregnant or breast-feeding, contact your doctor before using Cefotaxime. Even if the infection clears, use Cefotaxime for the prescribed time or the infection may not be fully cured.

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