Cefotaxime

Antibiotic injection (cephalosporin)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Cefotaxime is a antibiotic injection (cephalosporin) found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Taxim 1 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; given by injection.

How it works

A third-generation cephalosporin injection for meningitis, pneumonia and serious infections, including in newborns.

How to take it

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

Common side effects

  • Pain at injection site
  • Diarrhoea
  • Rash

Get medical help straight away if

  • Allergic reaction
  • Severe diarrhoea

Be careful

Given by a health professional.

Other medicines and interactions

Caution with penicillin allergy.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Used in pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed.

Brands of Cefotaxime (1)

Taxim 1 g

Common questions

What is Cefotaxime used for?

Treats serious bacterial infections; given by injection.

How does Cefotaxime work?

A third-generation cephalosporin injection for meningitis, pneumonia and serious infections, including in newborns.

How should I take Cefotaxime?

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

What are the side effects of Cefotaxime?

Common: Pain at injection site, diarrhoea, rash. Get help straight away for: Allergic reaction, severe diarrhoea.

Does Cefotaxime interact with other medicines?

Caution with penicillin allergy.

Is Cefotaxime safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Used in pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed.

Does Cefotaxime 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 Cefotaxime?

Taxim 1 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.

🔎 Search another medicine

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.