Cefoxitin
Cefoxitin is a second-generation cephamycin antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections, particularly those caused by anaerobic organisms and mixed infections. It is commonly administered for intra-abdominal infections, gynecological infections, septicemia, and certain surgical prophylaxis situations.
Cefoxitin is an injectable antibiotic effective against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including anaerobic organisms, used to treat serious infections.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J01DC01
- RxNorm
- 2189
- Generic
- Cefoxitin
- Class
- atc-j01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- 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.
Treatment of infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including intra-abdominal infections, gynecological infections, septicemia, bone and joint infections, and lower respiratory tract infections. Also used for surgical prophylaxis.
Cefoxitin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) and disrupts the peptidoglycan layer of the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell death. It is resistant to many beta-lactamases, giving it a broader spectrum than first-generation agents.
Administered intravenously or intramuscularly. May cause allergic reactions in patients with penicillin or cephalosporin hypersensitivity. Common side effects include local injection site reactions, diarrhea, and rash. Use with caution in patients with impaired renal function.
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