Cefoxitin
Also known as: Mefoxin, Mefoxitin, Cefociclin, Cefoxin
Cefoxitin is a potent, injectable antibiotic typically administered by veterinary professionals in a clinic or hospital setting to treat severe or complex infections. * **Administration**: Because it is given by injection, you will likely not be administering this at home. If your pet is receiving injections under the skin (SC) or in the muscle (IM), they may experience some temporary pain or swelling at the injection site. * **Side Effects**: While generally very safe, some pets may develop mild diarrhea or stomach upset. * **Allergies**: Inform your veterinarian immediately if your pet has ever had an allergic reaction to penicillin or other antibiotics, or if you notice signs of an allergic reaction (facial swelling, hives, difficulty breathing) during treatment.
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
- Systemic infections
- Sepsis
- Susceptible infections
- Non-tuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM) - second line treatment
- Susceptible infections (Foals)
- Mixed infections (e.g., aspiration pneumonia, bowel perforation)
- Sepsis
- Soft tissue infections
- Bacteremia
- Orthopedic infections
- Susceptible infections
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Hypersensitivity reactions (rashes, fever, eosinophilia, lymphadenopathy, anaphylaxis)
- Pain at the injection site (IM)
- Sterile abscesses or local tissue reactions
- Thrombophlebitis (IV administration)
- Antibiotic-associated diarrhea or altered gut flora
- Superinfections
- Nephrotoxicity (rare at clinical doses)
- Neurotoxicity, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, hepatitis (associated with high doses or prolonged use)
Cautions & contraindications
- Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to cephalosporins
- Use with extreme caution in patients documented to be hypersensitive to other beta-lactams (penicillins, carbapenems)
- ### Important Precautions * **Renal Impairment**: Patients in renal failure may require dosage adjustments as the drug is primarily eliminated via the kidneys. * **Cross-Reactivity**: Cross-hypersensitivity with penicillins can occur (estimated 1-15% in humans; unknown in veterinary species). * **Administration**: Causes pain on IM injection. When giving IV, administer slowly over 3-5 minutes or more to minimize adverse reactions. * **Laboratory Interference**: May cause false-positive urine glucose tests (cupric sulfate method) and falsely elevated serum/urine creatinine values (Jaffe reaction).
Drug interactions
- Aminoglycosides / Nephrotoxic Drugs: Potential for additive nephrotoxicity. While in vitro synergy exists against certain bacteria, they should not be mixed in the same syringe or fluid bag.
- Probenecid: Competitively blocks the tubular secretion of cefoxitin, thereby increasing serum levels and prolonging elimination half-lives.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cefoxitin used for in pets?
Cefoxitin is a potent, injectable antibiotic typically administered by veterinary professionals in a clinic or hospital setting to treat severe or complex infections. * **Administration**: Because it is given by injection, you will likely not be administering this at home. If your pet is receiving injections under the skin (SC) or in the muscle (IM), they may experience some temporary pain or swelling at the injection site. * **Side Effects**: While generally very safe, some pets may develop mild diarrhea or stomach upset. * **Allergies**: Inform your veterinarian immediately if your pet has ever had an allergic reaction to penicillin or other antibiotics, or if you notice signs of an allergic reaction (facial swelling, hives, difficulty breathing) during treatment.
Is Cefoxitin 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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