Cefoxitin (sef-OX-i-tin)

Treats infections caused by bacteria. This medicine is a cephalosporin antibiotic.

Brand Name(s):

Mefoxin, PremierPro Rx cefOXitin Sodium, cefOXitin Novaplus

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins or as a shot given into a muscle.
• A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• If you are using IV medicine, check the bag to make sure there are no leaks. Also make sure the solution is clear. Do not use the solution if you see particles in it.
• Missed dose: You must use this medicine on a fixed schedule. Call your doctor or pharmacist if you miss a dose.
• Store the medicine in a refrigerator. Do not freeze. Take it out of the refrigerator an hour before your next dose and allow it to warm to room temperature in a clean, dry place.
• Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you had an allergic reaction to penicillin, you have liver or kidney disease, or you had colitis.
• This medicine can cause diarrhea. Call your doctor if the diarrhea becomes severe, does not stop, or is bloody. Do not take any medicine to stop diarrhea until you have talked to your doctor. Diarrhea can occur 2 months or more after you stop taking this medicine.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Burning, peeling, red skin rash
• Severe diarrhea (watery or bloody)
• Severe vomiting or stomach pain
• Swelling of your face, throat, or lips
• Swelling, pain, or redness near where your IV is located
• Wheezing or trouble breathing

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild diarrhea or nausea
• Pain where the shot was given

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088