Drug Groups

approved

Description

Cefoxitin is a semi-synthetic, broad-spectrum cepha antibiotic for intravenous administration. It is derived from cephamycin C, which is produced by Streptomyces lactamdurans.

Indication

For the treatment of serious infections caused by susceptible strains microorganisms.

Pharmacology

Cefoxitin is a cephamycin antibiotic often grouped with the second-generation cephalosporins. It is active against a broad range of gram-negative bacteria including anaerobes. The methoxy group in the 7a position provides cefoxitin with a high degree of stability in the presence of beta-lactamases, both penicillinases and cephalosporinases, of gram-negative bacteria.

Toxicity

The acute intravenous LD50 in the adult female mouse and rabbit was about 8.0 g/kg and greater than 1.0 g/kg, respectively. The acute intraperitoneal LD50 in the adult rat was greater than 10.0 g/kg.

Affected Organisms

Biotransformation

Minimal (approximately 85 percent of cefoxitin is excreted unchanged by the kidneys over a 6-hour period).

Half Life

The half-life after an intravenous dose is 41 to 59 minutes.

Elimination

Approximately 85 percent of cefoxitin is excreted unchanged by the kidneys over a 6-hour period, resulting in high urinary concentrations. Cefoxitin passes into pleural and joint fluids and is detectable in antibacterial concentrations in bile.

External Links