Cefoxitin Sodium
Cefoxitin Sodium is a cephamycin antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, particularly those involving mixed aerobic and anaerobic organisms. It is commonly prescribed for intra-abdominal infections, gynecological infections, and is frequently used as surgical prophylaxis to prevent post-operative infections.
Cefoxitin Sodium is an injectable antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, especially intra-abdominal and gynecological infections, and to prevent infections during surgery.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203118
- Generic
- Cefoxitin Sodium
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Cefoxitin is used to treat infections of the abdomen (such as peritonitis and intra-abdominal abscesses), gynecological infections (including pelvic inflammatory disease, endometritis, and vaginal cuff infections), and is commonly used for surgical prophylaxis, particularly in gastrointestinal and gynecological procedures.
Cefoxitin is a beta-lactam antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) and interferes with the transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis, weakening the bacterial cell wall and leading to cell death. It has good activity against many gram-negative bacteria, gram-positive bacteria, and anaerobes, including Bacteroides species.
Cefoxitin is administered intravenously or intramuscularly. Patients with penicillin allergies may have cross-reactivity. Common side effects include injection site reactions, diarrhea, and rash. It should be used with caution in patients with kidney impairment, and dose adjustment may be necessary. Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
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 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy