How should I use cefotaxime?
Cefotaxime is injected into a muscle, or given as an infusion into a vein.
A healthcare provider will give you this injection when cefotaxime is used to prevent infection from surgery.
A healthcare provider may teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself to treat an infection.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you don't understand all instructions.
Cefotaxime must be mixed with a liquid (diluent) before using it. You may need to further dilute the mixed medicine before injecting your dose. If you are using the injections at home, be sure you understand how to properly mix and store the medication.
Use a needle and syringe only once and then place them in a puncture-proof "sharps" container. Follow state or local laws about how to dispose of this container. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication. Cefotaxime will not treat a viral infection such as the flu or a common cold.
This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using cefotaxime.
Store the unmixed medicine at cool room temperature (not above 77 degrees F).
Mixed medicine must be used within a certain number of hours or days, depending on the type of diluent used in the mixture. Carefully follow all mixing and storage instructions for cefotaxime.
After mixing cefotaxime with a diluent, you may need to store the mixture in a refrigerator and use it within a certain number of days.