How is cefoxitin given?
Cefoxitin is given as an infusion into a vein.
A healthcare provider will give you this injection when cefoxitin 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.
Cefoxitin is a powder that must be mixed with a liquid (diluent) before injecting 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 medicine.
Do not use mixed medicine if it has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medication.
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. Cefoxitin 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 cefoxitin.
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 cefoxitin.
After mixing cefoxitin with a diluent, you may need to store the mixture in a refrigerator and use it within a certain number of days. Do not freeze.
Use a disposable needle and syringe only once. Follow any state or local laws about throwing away used needles and syringes. Use a puncture-proof "sharps" disposal container (ask your pharmacist where to get one and how to throw it away). Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.