Claforan 0.5g Injection (Cefotaxime) – 1 Vial

Description

Claforan is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic containing cefotaxime sodium. It is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including those resistant to first-line antibiotics. It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial death. Supplied as a powder for solution in a 0.5 g vial, to be reconstituted with diluent before injection.

Ingredients

• Active Ingredient: Cefotaxime sodium equivalent to 0.5 g cefotaxime

• Excipients: None (sterile powder for reconstitution with sterile water or compatible diluent)

Drug Class

• Antibiotic

• Third-generation cephalosporin

Dosage Form

• Sterile powder in 1 vial (0.5 g)

• To be reconstituted with 2 mL sterile water for intramuscular (IM) or intravenous (IV) injection

Uses / Indications

Claforan is indicated for treatment of infections caused by susceptible organisms, including:

• Respiratory tract infections (pneumonia, bronchitis)

• Urinary tract infections

• Skin and soft tissue infections

• Septicemia (bloodstream infections)

• Bone and joint infections

• Meningitis

• Intra-abdominal infections (e.g., peritonitis)

• Gynecological infections

• Prophylaxis in surgical procedures

Dosage

• Adults: Typically 1–2 g every 8–12 hours IV or IM, depending on infection severity.

• Severe infections: Up to 12 g/day in divided doses.

• Children: 50–100 mg/kg/day divided every 6–12 hours.

• Neonates: Adjusted lower dosing based on age/weight.

• Dose must be tailored by physician based on severity, renal function, and organism sensitivity.

In Case of Overdose

• Symptoms: Neurological disturbances including seizures, encephalopathy, and risk of renal impairment.

• Management: Symptomatic and supportive treatment. Hemodialysis may help remove cefotaxime.

Missed Dose

• Administer as soon as remembered.

• If next dose is near, skip missed dose. Do not double dose.

How To Use / Administration Instructions

1. Reconstitute powder in the vial with sterile water (usually 2 mL for IM or 10 mL for IV slow injection).

2. Ensure solution is clear, free of particles.

3. Administer as intravenous injection/infusion or intramuscular injection as directed.

4. Follow strict aseptic precautions.

When Not to Use / Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to cefotaxime, other cephalosporins, or beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g., penicillins).

• Previous severe allergic reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) to beta-lactams.

Side Effects / Adverse Reactions

Common:

• Injection site pain, redness, swelling

• Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting

• Skin rash

Serious (rare):

• Allergic reactions including anaphylaxis

• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea

• Hepatic dysfunction (elevated liver enzymes)

• Blood disorders (leukopenia, thrombocytopenia)

• Seizures (with very high doses or renal impairment)

Precautions & Warnings

• Use cautiously in patients with history of beta-lactam allergy.

• Adjust dose in renal or hepatic impairment.

• Monitor complete blood count and liver/kidney function with prolonged therapy.

• Risk of superinfection with prolonged use.

• Pregnant and lactating women: use only if clearly needed and prescribed by physician.

Drug Interactions

• Aminoglycosides & loop diuretics: ↑ risk of nephrotoxicity.

• Warfarin & anticoagulants: may enhance anticoagulant effect.

• Other antibiotics: avoid unnecessary combination unless indicated.

• Alcohol: may cause disulfiram-like reaction (rare).

Storage / Disposal

• Store below 25°C, protected from light.

• Use immediately after reconstitution or within manufacturer’s recommended time frame.

• Discard unused reconstituted solution safely.

• Follow hospital/clinic biomedical disposal regulations.

Control Drug / Prescription Status

• Prescription-only medicine

• Must be used under medical supervision

Quick Tips

• Always complete the full course prescribed, even if symptoms improve early.

• Do not self-inject; only a trained healthcare provider should administer.

• Report any severe diarrhea, rash, or breathing difficulty immediately.

• Inform your doctor about any kidney, liver, or seizure history before use.

• Drink plenty of fluids during antibiotic therapy.