Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 20, 2022.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Mefoxin
Available Dosage Forms:
- Powder for Solution
- Solution
Therapeutic Class: Antibiotic
Pharmacologic Class: 2nd Generation Cephalosporin
Uses for cefoxitin
Cefoxitin injection is used to treat bacterial infections in many different parts of the body. Cefoxitin is also given before certain types of surgery to prevent infections.
Cefoxitin injection belongs to the class of medicines known as cephalosporin antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. However, cefoxitin will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections.
Cefoxitin is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using cefoxitin
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For cefoxitin, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to cefoxitin or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated pediatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of cefoxitin injection in children. However, safety and efficacy have not been established in children younger than 3 months old.
Geriatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of cefoxitin injection in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have age-related kidney problems, which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for patients receiving cefoxitin injection.
Breastfeeding
Studies in women suggest that this medication poses minimal risk to the infant when used during breastfeeding.
Interactions with medicines
Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different med...
