Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Cefotaxime/ceftriaxone

Cefotaxime and ceftriaxone are third-generation cephalosporins that inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins.

Cefotaxime and ceftriaxone are third-generation cephalosporins that inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins. Used for Bacterial infections including meningitis, sepsis, and respiratory tract infections, Intra-abdominal infections, Urinary tract infections.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

These beta-lactam antibiotics penetrate the bacterial cell wall and bind to penicillin-binding proteins, inhibiting cross-linking of peptidoglycan strands. This disrupts cell wall integrity, leading to bacterial cell lysis and death. They are effective against a broad spectrum of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including some anaerobes.

Approved indications

• Bacterial infections including meningitis, sepsis, and respiratory tract infections
• Intra-abdominal infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Gonorrhea and other sexually transmitted infections
• Prophylaxis in surgical procedures

Common side effects

• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Hypersensitivity reactions (rash)
• Phlebitis at injection site
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Eosinophilia

Key clinical trials

• Study of Ceftriaxone and Benzathine Penicillin G During Pregnancy
• A Randomised Study to Compare the Efficacy and Safety of Extended and Intermittent Infusion of Beta-lactams in Critically Ill Paediatric Patients. (PHASE4)
• Testing a Novel Combination Treatment (Arm D) Versus Standard of Care for Intensive Phase Treatment for Mycobacterium Abscessus Pulmonary Disease in People With or Without Cystic Fibrosis in the Finding the Optimal Regimen for Mycobacterium Abscessus Treatment (FORMaT) Adaptive Platform Trial (PHASE2)
• Optimizing the Diagnostic Approach to Cephalosporin Allergy Testing (PHASE2)
• Ceftriaxone Pulse Dose for Post-Treatment Lyme Disease (EARLY_PHASE1)
• Short Versus Standard of Care Antibiotic Duration for Children Hospitalized for CAP (PHASE4)
• Efficacy of Immunization With 4C-MenB in Preventing Experimental Urethral Infection With Neisseria Gonorrhoeae (PHASE2)
• Treatment Responses of Early Syphilis to Ceftriaxone Plus Doxycycline (PHASE4)

Primary sources

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