Ceftriaxone

Antibiotic injection (cephalosporin)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Ceftriaxone is a antibiotic injection (cephalosporin) found in 2 medicines sold in India, such as Monocef, Xone 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 infections such as pneumonia, typhoid and meningitis; given by injection.

How it works

A long-acting third-generation cephalosporin given by injection once daily for serious infections such as meningitis, typhoid and pneumonia.

How to take it

Given into a vein or muscle by a health professional, usually once a day.

Common side effects

  • Pain at the injection site
  • Diarrhoea
  • Rash

Get medical help straight away if

  • Allergic reaction during or after the injection
  • Severe diarrhoea
  • Tummy pain under the right ribs (gallbladder sludge)

Be careful

Given by a health professional only.

Other medicines and interactions

Must not be mixed with calcium-containing drips, especially in newborns.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Brands of Ceftriaxone (2)

MonocefXone 1 g

Common questions

What is Ceftriaxone used for?

Treats serious infections such as pneumonia, typhoid and meningitis; given by injection.

How does Ceftriaxone work?

A long-acting third-generation cephalosporin given by injection once daily for serious infections such as meningitis, typhoid and pneumonia.

How should I take Ceftriaxone?

Given into a vein or muscle by a health professional, usually once a day.

What are the side effects of Ceftriaxone?

Common: Pain at the injection site, diarrhoea, rash. Get help straight away for: Allergic reaction during or after the injection, severe diarrhoea, tummy pain under the right ribs (gallbladder sludge).

Does Ceftriaxone interact with other medicines?

Must not be mixed with calcium-containing drips, especially in newborns.

Is Ceftriaxone safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Does Ceftriaxone 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 Ceftriaxone?

Monocef, Xone 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.

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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.