Cefoperazone

Antibiotic injection (cephalosporin)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Cefoperazone is a antibiotic injection (cephalosporin) found in 2 medicines sold in India, such as Zostum 1.5 g, Magnex 1.5 g. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Treats serious bacterial infections in hospital; given by injection.

How it works

A third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic injection, usually combined with sulbactam, for serious abdominal, urinary and chest infections.

How to take it

Given into a vein or muscle by a health professional, usually in hospital.

Common side effects

  • Diarrhoea
  • Rash
  • Pain at injection site

Get medical help straight away if

  • Bleeding or bruising (it can affect clotting)
  • Severe diarrhoea
  • Allergic reaction

Be careful

Avoid alcohol; given by a health professional.

Other medicines and interactions

Do not drink alcohol during and for 3 days after (flushing reaction). Can strengthen warfarin.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Used in pregnancy when needed; acceptable while breastfeeding.

Combination medicines that contain Cefoperazone (2)

Magnex 1.5 gZostum 1.5 g

Common questions

What is Cefoperazone used for?

Treats serious bacterial infections in hospital; given by injection.

How does Cefoperazone work?

A third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic injection, usually combined with sulbactam, for serious abdominal, urinary and chest infections.

How should I take Cefoperazone?

Given into a vein or muscle by a health professional, usually in hospital.

What are the side effects of Cefoperazone?

Common: Diarrhoea, rash, pain at injection site. Get help straight away for: Bleeding or bruising (it can affect clotting), severe diarrhoea, allergic reaction.

Does Cefoperazone interact with other medicines?

Do not drink alcohol during and for 3 days after (flushing reaction). Can strengthen warfarin.

Is Cefoperazone safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Used in pregnancy when needed; acceptable while breastfeeding.

Does Cefoperazone need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Cefoperazone?

Magnex 1.5 g, Zostum 1.5 g.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.