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Cefepime
from eMedTV.comImportant Information for Your Healthcare Provider
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to using this medication if you have:- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- An allergy to cephalosporin or penicillin antibiotics
- Any other allergies, including to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
- Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant (see Maxipime and Pregnancy)
- Breastfeeding (see Maxipime and Breastfeeding).
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
(Click Precautions and Warnings With Cefepime to learn more, including information on who should not use the drug.)
How Does Cefepime Work?
Cefepime is a cephalosporin antibiotic. Cephalosporins are part of a larger group of medications known as beta-lactam antibiotics, named after the ring-like "lactam" structure of these drugs.Cefepime works by stopping bacteria from making cell walls, which eventually causes the bacteria to die. Cephalosporins are related to penicillins. Cefepime is usually classified as a "fourth-generation" cephalosporin.
When and How to Use This Medicine
Some general considerations to keep in mind during treatment with cefepime include the following:- This medication is given by IV or by intramuscular injection, usually once every 8 or 12 hours, or less often if you have kidney disease.
- For serious infections, it is usually best to give this drug by IV rather than by intramuscular injection.
- Cefepime is often given for a few days after the infection has cleared up. For serious infections, an even longer treatment course may be recommended.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD