Home Drug Guide Cefotetan Disodium

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Cefotetan Disodium

Brand Names Cefotan, Cefotan In Plastic Container, Cefotetan And Dextrose In Duplex Container

Classification

Therapeutic: Antibiotic, cephalosporin

Pharmacological: Second-generation cephalosporin

FDA Approved Indications

Bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, gynecological infections, intra-abdominal infections

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to cell lysis and death.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Dose varies depending on infection severity; typically 1-2 g every 12 hours IV or IM.

Pediatric: Dose based on weight and severity, usually 50-100 mg/kg/day divided every 12 hours.

Geriatric: Adjustments based on renal function; consider lower doses due to renal impairment.

Renal Impairment: Reduce dose or frequency according to creatinine clearance.

Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustment required.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Not absorbed from gastrointestinal tract (administered IV/IM).

Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues and fluids.

Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism.

Excretion: Primarily renal (urine).

Half Life: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or beta-lactam antibiotics.

Precautions

Use with caution in patients with a history of allergy to penicillins, including potential cross-reactivity.
Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity or allergic reactions.

Adverse Reactions - Common

Diarrhea (Common)
Vaginal moniliasis (yeast infection) (Less common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Allergic reactions including anaphylaxis (Rare)
Severe Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (Reported but rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

Probenecid may increase cefotetan levels.
Prolonged bleeding time may occur with anticoagulants.

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Assess for allergy to penicillins or other cephalosporins. Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity.

Diagnoses:

Risk for allergic reaction
Potential for superinfection.

Implementation: Administer IV/IM as prescribed. Monitor renal function and signs of superinfection.

Evaluation: Observe for resolution of infection, monitor for adverse reactions.

Patient/Family Teaching

Report any signs of allergic reaction immediately.
Complete the full course of therapy.
Watch for and report persistent diarrhea or vaginal yeast infection.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

None specifically for cefotetan, but be cautious of allergic reactions.

Genetic Factors: No well-known pharmacogenetic considerations.

Lab Test Interference: Cefotetan may interfere with coagulation tests; monitor PT/INR as needed.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Potential for allergic reactions, diarrhea, gastrointestinal upset.

Treatment: Supportive care, monitor vital signs, and address allergic reactions. Hemodialysis may be considered in severe cases.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store vials and containers at controlled room temperature (20-25°C).

Stability: Stable for the duration of the expiration date when stored properly.