Cefepime
Also known as: Maxipime, Axepime, Biopime, Cefepen, Ceficad, Cemax, Cepim, Cepimix, Forpar, Maxcef, Maxil
> **Important:** This medication is an injectable antibiotic reserved for serious infections and is administered exclusively by veterinary professionals. * **Hospitalization Required:** Because cefepime requires frequent intravenous dosing (every 6 to 8 hours) to remain effective, it is best administered to inpatients in a hospital setting. * **Side Effects:** The most common side effect is mild gastrointestinal upset, such as loose stools or diarrhea. If your pet develops severe or bloody diarrhea, notify your veterinarian immediately. * **Nursing Pets:** It passes into maternal milk in very low concentrations. While generally considered safe, it may alter the gut flora of nursing offspring, potentially causing diarrhea.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- For susceptible infections in foals (gram-negative infections)
- Neonates with poor aminoglycoside kinetics or documented multi-resistant infections
- For susceptible infections
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Loose stools or diarrhea
- Pain on IM injection
- Injection site inflammation
- Hypersensitivity reactions (rash, anaphylaxis)
- Neurologic effects (encephalopathy, seizures) in patients with renal dysfunction
Cautions & contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cefepime or other cephalosporins
- Caution in patients with severe renal impairment (dosage adjustment required)
- Dosage adjustment is recommended in patients with severe renal impairment to prevent neurotoxicity. May cause false-positive urine glucose determinations when using the copper reduction method (e.g., Clinitest). May cause a false-positive direct Coombs' test, particularly in azotemic patients. IM injections can be painful; 1% lidocaine may be used as a diluent to alleviate pain.
Drug interactions
- Aminoglycosides: Potential for increased risk of nephrotoxicity; monitor renal function closely.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cefepime used for in pets?
> **Important:** This medication is an injectable antibiotic reserved for serious infections and is administered exclusively by veterinary professionals. * **Hospitalization Required:** Because cefepime requires frequent intravenous dosing (every 6 to 8 hours) to remain effective, it is best administered to inpatients in a hospital setting. * **Side Effects:** The most common side effect is mild gastrointestinal upset, such as loose stools or diarrhea. If your pet develops severe or bloody diarrhea, notify your veterinarian immediately. * **Nursing Pets:** It passes into maternal milk in very low concentrations. While generally considered safe, it may alter the gut flora of nursing offspring, potentially causing diarrhea.
Is Cefepime safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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