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ANTIINFECTIVES FOR SYSTEMIC USE › ANTIBACTERIALS FOR SYSTEMIC USE › OTHER BETA-LACTAM ANTIBACTERIALS › First-generation cephalosporins
cefalotin
J01DB03
Forms & Strengths
- 250mg vial
- 500mg vial
- 1g vial
Adult Dosing
- 250mg to 1g IV every 4 to 6 hours
- Typical dose for skin infections: 250mg to 500mg IV every 4 to 6 hours
- Typical dose for respiratory infections: 500mg to 1g IV every 4 to 6 hours
Pediatric Dosing
- 50mg to 100mg/kg/day IV divided every 4 to 6 hours
- Not recommended for infants under 1 month of age
- Dose adjustment may be necessary in pediatric patients with renal impairment
Indications
- Treatment of bacterial septicemia
- Treatment of bacterial endocarditis
- Treatment of bacterial meningitis
- Treatment of skin and soft tissue infections
- Treatment of respiratory tract infections
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins
- Interferes with bacterial cell wall formation
- Bactericidal activity against susceptible organisms
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cefalotin or other cephalosporins
- History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to penicillins
Adverse Reactions
- Hypersensitivity reactions (e.g. rash, urticaria, anaphylaxis)
- Gastrointestinal disturbances (e.g. nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Local irritation at injection site
- Renal impairment or nephrotoxicity
Drug Interactions
- Concomitant use with aminoglycosides may increase risk of nephrotoxicity
- Concomitant use with probenecid may increase cefalotin levels
- Concomitant use with warfarin may increase risk of bleeding
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use