Cefotetan
Cefotetan is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis and is effective against a broad range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including some anaerobic organisms. This medication is commonly prescribed for intra-abdominal infections, urinary tract infections, and is often used as surgical prophylaxis.
Cefotetan is a broad-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, particularly intra-abdominal and urinary tract infections.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J01DC05
- RxNorm
- 2187
- Generic
- Cefotetan
- Class
- atc-j01
- Brands
- Cefotan
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- B
- Lactation
- safe
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Cefotetan is used to treat respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, intra-abdominal infections, skin and soft tissue infections, bone and joint infections, and is commonly administered as prophylaxis before abdominal or pelvic surgeries.
As a beta-lactam antibiotic, cefotetan inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to disruption of the bacterial cell wall and bacterial cell death.
Patients with penicillin allergies may have cross-reactivity. Contains a methylthiotetrazole side chain that may cause hypoprothrombinemia and disulfiram-like reactions with alcohol. Renal function monitoring may be required. Administered intravenously or intramuscularly.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy