Cefotaxime Sodium Injection IP 500 mg: Uses, How It Works, Side Effects, and Jan Aushadhi Price
Cefotaxime Sodium Injection IP 500 mg is a broad-spectrum antibiotic belonging to the third-generation cephalosporin class. It is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including those of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, skin, bones, joints, and intra-abdominal infections. It is also effective in treating septicemia (blood infection) and meningitis. As a Jan Aushadhi generic medicine, it offers an affordable alternative to expensive branded versions.
Cefotaxime Injection Uses
- Treatment of lower respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia)
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Bone and joint infections
- Intra-abdominal infections (e.g., peritonitis)
- Septicemia (bloodstream infection)
- Meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord membranes)
- Gonorrhea (sexually transmitted infection)
- Prevention of infection during surgery (prophylaxis)
How Cefotaxime Injection Works
Cefotaxime works by interfering with the formation of bacterial cell walls. It binds to specific proteins (penicillin-binding proteins) inside the bacterial cell, inhibiting the cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains. This weakens the cell wall, causing the bacteria to rupture and die. Cefotaxime is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including many strains that are resistant to older antibiotics.
Common Side Effects of Cefotaxime Injection
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Diarrhea (may be watery or bloody)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Skin rash or itching
- Headache
- Fever
- Injection site phlebitis (inflammation of the vein)
Serious side effects are rare but may include severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, seizures (especially in patients with renal impairment), and blood disorders. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe skin reactions.
Expert Advice for Cefotaxime Injection
- This medicine is for hospital or clinical use only and must be administered by a healthcare professional.
- Inform your doctor about any allergies to cephalosporins, penicillins, or other drugs.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or a history of gastrointestinal disease (especially colitis).
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if you feel better, to prevent antibiotic resistance.
- Do not use this medicine for viral infections (e.g., common cold, flu) as it is ineffective.
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before use.
Jan Aushadhi Price and Availability
Cefotaxime Sodium Injection IP 500 mg is available at Jan Aushadhi Kendras across India at an affordable price of ₹11.25 per vial (including water for injection). This generic version is bioequivalent to branded alternatives and offers significant cost savings. Always check the batch number and expiry date before purchase. For the nearest Jan Aushadhi Kendra, visit the PMBJP website or use the Jan Aushadhi mobile app.
Safety Note
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before using any medicine. Do not self-medicate or share this injection with others. In case of any adverse reaction, seek immediate medical help.