Cefepime

Cefepime is an injectable antibiotic that is only given to you when your healthcare provider prescribes it.

It is useful for treating bacterial infections such as:

• Pneumonia.
• Bacterial infection in the blood.
• Infections of the covering of the heart or brain (endocarditis and meningitis).
• Skin infections.
• Joint infections.
• Tuberculosis infection of the kidneys, bladder, ureters or urethra (urinary tract).

Cefepime prevents the growth of bacteria in your body. Pneumonia, skin and kidney infections are examples of infections that cefepime can treat. You cannot use this medicine to treat viral infections like a cold or flu. Tell your healthcare provider if you had any allergies to this medicine or other antibiotics before. This medicine must be prescribed by your healthcare provider.

• Cefepime is given as an injection in your muscle or vein. It is usually given once or twice daily. How long you need to use cefepime will depend on the severity of your infection.
• This medicine should be given by your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider may also train and direct you on how to inject this medicine. Be sure you clearly understand the instructions before you inject yourself.
• Inform your healthcare provider if you notice any pain or swelling around the injection site.
• The injection liquid should be clear, don’t use it if there are particles in the liquid or you notice a colour change to the liquid.
• Do not skip any dose or stop this medicine even if you are feeling better. The infection may return if you do not complete your recommended dose.
• In case you miss a dose, ask your healthcare provider what to do. Do not take more of this medicine than your healthcare provider has recommended.

The side effects of cefepime include the following:

• Watery stools.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Fever or chills.
• Pain or itching at the site of injection.
• Difficulty swallowing.

See your healthcare provider at once if you have seizures, severe headache, loss of appetite, or any other unpleasant effects. Your healthcare provider has prescribed cefepime because its benefits are greater to you than the risk of side-effects.

Before using cefepime, inform your healthcare provider if you have had bad reactions to cefepime or any other antibiotics. The following are essential things to note before taking cefepime:

• Inform your healthcare provider if you have a kidney or stomach disease.
• If you are using any other antibiotic injection, tell your healthcare provider.
• In case you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your healthcare provider if this medicine is safe to use.
• Remember to keep your cefepime medication and other medicines away from children and avoid sharing them with other people.