Treats infections caused by bacteria. Belongs to a class of drugs called cephalosporin antibiotics
Contraindications:
You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to cephalosporin medicine, such as Keflex®, Velosef®, or Ceclor®
Uses:
Injectable
Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given.
An IM shot is given in your muscle (upper arm, thigh, buttocks).
An IV is medicine that is put directly into your body through one of your veins.
This medicine should be given by a person trained to give IV or IM medicine, such as a nurse. Sometimes you, a family member, or friend can be taught to give your medicine.
If you are receiving IV medicine, check the bag to make sure there are no leaks. Also make sure the solution is clear.
If a dose is missed:
This medicine needs to be given on a regular schedule. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, and take the rest of the doses for the day at evenly spaced time intervals.
If you miss more than one dose, call your doctor for instructions.
Storage:
Store in a refrigerator. Do not freeze. Take it out of the refrigerator an hour before the time for your next dose and allow it to warm to room temperature in a clean, dry place.
If you see particles in the solution, You should not use it.
If you have your treatments at home, you may be given a special container for the used needles. Keep it where children or pets cannot reach it.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
Special precautions:
Before taking, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to any medications. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart failure or liver disease. tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking, call your doctor
Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking birth control pills or probenecid (Benemid®, ColBENEMID®) while taking cephalothin.
Warnings:
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
Before taking this medicine, let your doctor know if you have ever had an allergic reaction to penicillin medicines.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have liver or kidney disease or colitis before taking this medicine.
If you have severe diarrhea while taking cephalothin, check with your doctor before taking medicine to stop the diarrhea.
Cephalothin may cause incorrect results with urine sugar tests used by patients with diabetes.
Side Effects:
Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Rash, hives, or blistering skin
Swelling of the face, throat, or lips
Wheezing or trouble breathing
Severe diarrhea, vomiting, or stomach pain
Pain, burning, or swelling where the shot or IV is given
