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CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Following IM administration of a single 500 mg or 1 g dose of CLAFORAN to normal volunteers, mean peak serum concentrations of 11.7 and 20.5 mcg/mL respectively were attained within 30 minutes and declined with an elimination half-life of approximately 1 hour. There was a dose-dependent increase in serum levels after the IV administration of 500 mg, 1 g, and 2 g of CLAFORAN (38.9, 101.7, and 214.4 mcg/mL respectively) without alteration in the elimination half-life. There is no evidence of accumulation following repetitive IV infusion of 1 g doses every 6 hours for 14 days as there are no alterations of serum or renal clearance. About 60% of the administered dose was recovered from urine during the first 6 hours following the start of the infusion. Approximately 20-36% of an intravenously administered dose of 14C-cefotaxime is excreted by the kidney as unchanged cefotaxime and 15-25% as the desacetyl derivative, the major metabolite. The desacetyl metabolite has been shown to contribute to the bactericidal activity. Two other urinary metabolites (M2 and M3) account for about 20-25%. They lack bactericidal activity. A single 50 mg/kg dose of CLAFORAN was administered as an intravenous infusion over a 10- to 15-minute period to 29 newborn infants grouped according to birth weight and age. The mean half-life of cefotaxime in infants with lower birth weights ( ≤ 1500 grams), regardless of age, was longer (4.6 hours) than the mean half-life (3.4 hours) in infants whose birth weight was greater than 1500 grams. Mean serum clearance was also smaller in the lower birth weight infants. Although the differences in mean half-life values are statistically significant for weight, they are not clinically important. Therefore, dosage should be based solely on age. (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section.) Drug Interactions A single intravenous dose and oral dose of probenecid (500 mg each) followed by two oral doses of probenecid 500 mg at approximately hourly intervals administered to three healthy male subjects receiving a continuous infusion of cefotaxime increased the steady-state plasma concentration of cefotaxime by approximately 80%. In another study, administration of oral probenecid 500 mg every 6 hours to six healthy male subjects with cefotaxime 1 gram infused over 5 minutes decreased the total clearance of cefotaxime by approximately 50%. Additionally, no disulfiram-like reactions were reported in a study conducted in 22 healthy volunteers administered CLAFORAN and ethanol. Microbiology Mechanism of Action Cefotaxime sodium is a bactericidal agent that acts by inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis. Cefotaxime has activity in the presence of some beta-lactamases, both penicillinases and cephalosporinases, of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Mechanism of Resistance Resistance to cefotaxime is primarily through hydrolysis by beta-lactamase, alteration of penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), and decreased permeability. Susceptibility to cefotaxime will vary geographically and may change over time; local susceptibility data should be consulted, if available. Cefotaxime has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following bacteria both in vitro and in clinical infections as described in the INDICATIONS AND USAGE section: Gram-positive bacteria Enterococcus spp.a Staphylococcus aureus ( methicillin-susceptible isolates only) Staphylococcus epidermidis Streptococcus pneumoniae Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci) Streptococcus spp. (Viridans group streptococci) Gram-negative bacteria Acinetobacter spp. Citrobacter spp. b Enterobacter spp. b Escherichia colib Haemophilus influenzae Haemophilus parainfluenzae Klebsiella spp. (including Klebsiella pneumoniae) b Morganella morganiib Neisseria gonorrhoeae (including beta-lactamase-positive and negative strains) Neisseria meningitidis Proteus mirabilisb Proteus vulgarisb Providencia rettgerib Providencia stuartiib Serratia marcescensb aEnterococcus species may be intrinsically resistant to cefotaxime. bMost extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing and carbapenemase-producing isolates are resistant to cefotaxime. Anaerobic bacteria Bacteroides spp., including some isolates of Bacteroides fragilis Clostridium spp. (most isolates of Clostridium difficile are resistant) Fusobacterium spp. (including Fusobacterium nucleatum). Peptococcus spp. Peptostreptococcus spp. The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown. At least 90 percent of the following microorganisms exhibit an in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) less than or equal to the susceptible breakpoint for cefotaxime. However, the efficacy of cefotaxime in treating clinical infections due to these microorganisms has not been established in adequate and well-controlled clinical trials. Gram-negative bacteria Providencia spp. Salmonella spp. (including Salmonella typhi) Shigella spp. Susceptibility Test Methods When available, the clinical microbiology laboratory should provide the results of in vitro susceptibility test results for antimicrobial drug products used in resident hospitals to the physician as periodic reports that describe the susceptibility profile of nosocomial and community-acquired pathogens. These reports should aid the physician in selecting an antibacterial drug product for treatment. Dilution techniques Quantitative methods are used to determine antimicrobial minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). These MICs provide estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. The MICs should be determined using a standardized test method (broth or agar)1.2. The MIC values should be interpreted according to the criteria provided in Table 1. Diffusion techniques Quantitative methods that require measurement of zone diameters also provide reproducible estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. The zone size provides an estimate of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. The zone size should be determined using a standardized test method2,3. This procedure uses paper disks impregnated with 30 mcg cefotaxime to test the susceptibility of microorganisms to cefotaxime. The disk diffusion interpretive criteria are provided in Table 1. Anaerobic techniques For anaerobic bacteria, the susceptibility to cefotaxime as MICs can be determined by a standardized agar test method3,4. The MIC values obtained should be interpreted according to the criteria provided in Table 1. Table 1: Susceptibility Test Interpretive Criteria for Cefotaxime Pathogen Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (mcg/mL) Disk Diffusion Zone Diameters (mm) (S) Susceptible (I) Intermediate (R) Resistant (S) Susceptible (I) Intermediate (R) Resistant Acinetobacter spp. ≤ 8 16-32 ≥ 64 ≥ 23 15-22 ≤ 14 Enterobacteriaceae ≤ 1 2 ≥ 4 ≥ 26 23-25 ≤ 22 Haemophilus spp. *a ≤ 2 - - ≥ 26 - - Neisseria gonorrhoeae* ≤ 0.5 - - ≥ 31 - - Neisseria meningitidis* ≤ 0.12 - - ≥ 34 - - Streptococcus pneumoniae† meningitis isolates ≤ 0.5 1 ≥ 2 - - - Streptococcus pneumoniae† non-meningitis isolates ≤ 1 2 ≥ 4 - - - Streptococcus spp. beta-hemolytic group* ≤ 0.5 - - ≥ 24 - - Viridans group streptococci ≤ 1 2 ≥ 4 ≥ 28 26-27 ≤ 25 Other Non-Enterobacteriaceae‡ ≤ 8 16-32 ≥ 64 - - - Anaerobic bacteria (agar method) ≤ 16 32 ≥ 64 - - - Susceptibility of staphylococci to cefotaxime may be deduced from testing only penicillin and either cefoxitin or oxacillin. aHaemophilus spp includes only isolates of H. influenzae and H. parainfluenzae. *The current absence of data on resistant isolates precludes defining any category other than “Susceptible”. If isolates yield MIC results other than susceptible, they should be submitted to a reference laboratory for additional testing. †Disc diffusion interpretive criteria for cefotaxime discs against Streptococcus pneumoniae are not available, however, isolates of pneumococci with oxacillin zone diameters of > 20 mm are susceptible (MIC ≤ 0.06 mcg/mL) to penicillin and can be considered susceptible to cefotaxime. S. pneumoniae isolates should not be reported as penicillin (cefotaxime) resistant or intermediate based solely on an oxacillin zone diameter of ≤ 19 mm. The cefotaxime MIC should be determined for those isolates with oxacillin zone diameters ≤ 19 mm. ‡Other Non-Enterobacteriaceae include Pseudomonas spp. and other nonfastidious, glucose-nonfermenting, gram-negative bacilli, but exclude Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter spp., Burkholderia cepacia, Burkholderia mallei, Burkholderia pseudomallei, and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. A report of Susceptible indicates that the antimicrobial is likely to inhibit growth of the pathogen if the antimicrobial compound reaches the concentration at the infection site necessary to inhibit growth of the pathogen. A report of Intermediate indicates that the result should be considered equivocal, and if the microorganism is not fully susceptible to alternative, clinically feasible drugs, the test should be repeated. This category implies possible clinical applicability in body sites where the drug is physiologically concentrated or in situations where a high dosage of drug can be used. This category also provides a buffer zone that prevents small uncontrolled technical factors from causing major discrepancies in interpretation. A report of Resistant indicates that the antimicrobial is not likely to inhibit growth of the pathogen if the antimicrobial compound reaches the concentrations usually achievable at the infection site; other therapy should be selected. Quality Control Standardized susceptibility test procedures require the use of laboratory controls to monitor and ensure the accuracy and precision of supplies and reagents used in the assay, and the techniques of the individual performing the test1,2,3,4. Standard cefotaxime powder should provide the following range of MIC values noted in Table 2. For the diffusion technique using the 30 mcg disk, the criteria in Table 2 should be achieved. Table 2: Acceptable Quality Control Ranges for Cefotaxime*Using the Reference Agar Dilution procedure. QC Strain Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (mcg/mL) Disk Diffusion Zone Diameters (mm) Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 0.03-0.12 29-35 Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213 1-4 - Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 - 25-31 Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 8-32 18-22 Haemophilus influenzae ATCC 49247 0.12-0.5 31-39 Streptococcus pneumoniae ATCC 49619 0.03-0.12 31-39 Neisseria gonorrhoeae ATCC 49226 0.015-0.06 38-48 Bacteroides fragilis* ATCC 25285 8-32 - Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron* ATCC 29741 16-64 - Eubacterium lantem* ATCC 43055 64-256 - REFERENCES 1 Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Methods for Dilution Antimicrobial Susceptibility Tests for Bacteria that Grow Aerobically; Approved Standard -Ninth Edition. CLSI document M07-A9, Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, 950 West Valley Road, Suite 2500, Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087, USA, 2012. 2. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Performance Standards for Antimicrobials Susceptibility Tests; Twenty-Third Informational Supplement. CLSI document M100-S23, Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, 950 West Valley Road, Suite 2500, Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087, USA, 2013. 3. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Performance Standards for Antimicrobial Disk Susceptibility Tests; Approved Standard -Eleventh Edition. CLSI document M02-A11, Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, 950 West Valley Road, Suite 2500, Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087, USA, 2012. 4. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Methods for Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing of Anaerobic Bacteria; Approved Standard -Eight Edition. CLSI document M11-A8, Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, 950 West Valley Road, Suite 2500, Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087, USA, 2012.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY There was a dose-dependent increase in serum levels after the IV administration of 500 mg, 1 g, and 2 g of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) (38.9, 101.7, and 214.4 µg/mL respectively) without alteration in the elimination half-life. There is no evidence of accumulation following repetitive IV infusion of 1 g doses every 6 hours for 14 days as there are no alterations of serum or renal clearance. About 60% of the administered dose was recovered from urine during the first 6 hours following the start of the infusion. Approximately 20-36% of an intravenously administered dose of 14C-cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) is excreted by the kidney as unchanged cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) and 15-25% as the desacetyl derivative, the major metabolite. The desacetyl metabolite has been shown to contribute to the bactericidal activity. Two other urinary metabolites (M2 and M3) account for about 20-25%. They lack bactericidal activity. A single 50 mg/kg dose of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) was administered as an intravenous infusion over a 10- to 15-minute period to 29 newborn infants grouped according to birth weight and age. The mean half-life of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) in infants with lower birth weights ( ≤ 1500 grams), regardless of age, was longer (4.6 hours) than the mean half-life (3.4 hours) in infants whose birth weight was greater than 1500 grams. Mean serum clearance was also smaller in the lower birth weight infants. Although the differences in mean half-life values are statistically significant for weight, they are not clinically important. Therefore, dosage should be based solely on age. (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section.) Additionally, no disulfiram-like reactions were reported in a study conducted in 22 healthy volunteers administered cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) and ethanol. Microbiology The bactericidal activity of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium results from inhibition of cell wall synthesis. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium has in vitro activity against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium has a high degree of stability in the presence of β-lactamases, both penicillinases and cephalosporinases, of gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium has been shown to be active against most strains of the following microorganisms both in vitro and in clinical infections as described in the INDICATIONS AND USAGE section. Aerobes, Gram-positive: Enterococcus spp. Staphylococcus aureus*, including β-lactamase-positive and negative strains Staphylococcus epidermidis Streptococcus pneumoniae Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci) Streptococcus spp. *Staphylococci which are resistant to methicillin/oxacillin must be considered resistant to cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium. Aerobes, Gram-negative: Acinetobacter spp. Citrobacter spp. Enterobacter spp. Escherichia coli Haemophilus influenzae (including ampicillin-resistant strains) Haemophilus parainfluenzae Klebsiella spp. (including Klebsiella pneumoniae) Morganella morganii Neisseria meningitidis Proteus mirabilis Proteus vulgaris Providencia rettgeri Providencia stuartii Serratia marcescens NOTE: Many strains of the above organisms that are multiply resistant to other antibiotics, e.g. penicillins, cephalosporins, and aminoglycosides, are susceptible to cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium is active against some strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Anaerobes: Bacteroides spp., including some strains of Bacteroides fragilis Clostridium spp. (Note: Most strains of Clostridium difficile are resistant.) Fusobacterium spp. (including Fusobacterium nucleatum). Peptococcus spp. Peptostreptococcus spp. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium also demonstrates in vitro activity against the following microorganisms but the clinical significance is unknown. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium exhibits in vitro minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC's) of 8 µg/mL or less against most ( ≥ 90%) strains of the following microorganisms; however, the safety and effectiveness of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium in treating clinical infections due to these microorganisms have not been established in adequate and well-controlled clinical trials: Aerobes, Gram-negative: Providencia spp. Salmonella spp. (including Salmonella typhi) Shigella spp. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium is highly stable in vitro to four of the five major classes of β-lactamases described by Richmond et al.1, including type IIIa (TEM) which is produced by many gram-negative bacteria. The drug is also stable to β-lactamase (penicillinase) produced by staphylococci. In addition, cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium shows high affinity for penicillin-binding proteins in the cell wall, including PBP: Ib and III. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium and aminoglycosides have been shown to be synergistic in vitro against some strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa but the clinical significance is unknown. Susceptibility Tests Dilution techniques Quantitative methods that are used to determine minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC's) provide reproducible estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. One such standardized procedure uses a standardized dilution method2 (broth or agar) or equivalent with cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium powder. The MIC values obtained should be interpreted according to the following criteria: When testing organismsa other than Haemophilus spp. and Streptococcus spp. MIC (µg/mL) Interpretation ≤ 8 Susceptible (S) 16-32 Intermediate (I) ≥ 64 Resistant (R) When testing Haemophilus spp.b MIC (µg/mL) Interpretationc ≤ 2 Susceptible (S) When testing Streptococcusd MIC (µg/mL) Interpretation ≤ 0.5 Susceptible (S) 1 Intermediate (I) ≥ 2 Resistant (R) a. Staphylococci exhibiting resistance to methicillin/oxacillin, should be reported as also resistant to cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) despite apparent in vitro susceptibility. b Interpretive criteria is applicable only to tests performed by broth microdilution method using Haemophilus Test Media.2 c The absence of resistant strains precludes defining any interpretations other than susceptible. d Streptococcus pneumoniae must be tested using cation-adjusted Mueller-Hinton broth with 2-5% lysed horse blood. A report of "Susceptible" indicates that the pathogen is likely to be inhibited if the antimicrobial compound in the blood reaches the concentrations usually achievable. A report of "Intermediate" indicates that the result should be considered equivocal and if the microorganism is not fully susceptible to alternative clinically feasible drugs the test should be repeated. This category implies possible clinical applicability in body sites where the drug is physiologically concentrated or in situations where high dosage of drug can be used. This category also provides a buffer zone that prevents small uncontrolled technical factors from causing major discrepancies in interpretation. A report of "Resistant" indicates that the pathogen is not likely to be inhibited if the antimicrobial compound in the blood reaches the concentrations usually achievable, other therapy should be selected. Standardized susceptibility test procedures require the use of laboratory control microorganisms to control the technical aspects of the laboratory procedure.3 Standard cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium powder should provide the following MIC values: Microorganism MIC (µg/mL) Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 0.03-0.12 Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213 1-4 Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 8-12 Haemophilus influenzaea ATCC 49247 0.12-0.5 Streptococcus pneumoniaeb ATCC 49619 0.03-0.12 a Ranges applicable only to tests performed by broth microdilution method using Haemophilus TestMedia.2 b Ranges applicable only to tests performed by broth microdilution method using cation-adjusted Mueller-Hinton broth with 2-5% lysed horse blood.2 Diffusion Techniques Quantitative methods that require measurements of zone diameters also provide reproducible estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. One such standardized procedure4 requires the use of standardized inoculum concentrations. This procedure uses paper disks impregnated with 30 µg cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium to test the susceptibility of microorganisms to cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium. Reports from the laboratory providing results of the standard single-disk susceptibility test using a 30 µg cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium disk should be interpreted according to the following criteria: When testing organismsa other than Haemophilus spp. and Streptococcus spp. Zone Diameter (mm) Interpretation ≥ 23 Susceptible (S) 15-22 Intermediate (I) ≤ 14 Resistant (R) When testing Haemophilus spp.b Zone Diameter (mm) Interpretationc ≥ 26 Susceptible (S) When testing Streptococcus other than Streptococcus pneumoniae Zone Diameter (mm) Interpretation ≥ 28 Susceptible (S) 26-27 Intermediate (I) ≤ 25 Resistant (R) a Staphylococci exhibiting resistance to methicillin/oxacillin, should be reported as also resistant to cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) despite apparent in vitro susceptibility. b Interpretive criteria is applicable only to tests performed by disk diffusion method using Haemophilus Test Media 4. c The absence of resistant strains precludes defining any interpretations other than susceptible. Interpretation should be as stated above for results using dilution techniques. Interpretation involves correlation of the diameter obtained in the disk test with the MIC for cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium. As with standardized dilution techniques, diffusion methods require the use of laboratory control microorganisms that are used to control the technical aspects of the laboratory procedures. For the diffusion technique, the 30 µg cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium disk should provide the following zone diameters in these laboratory test quality control strains: Microorganism Zone Diameter (mm) Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 29-35 Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 25-31 Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 18-22 Haemophilus influenzaea ATCC 49247 31-39 a Ranges applicable only to tests performed by disk diffusion method using Haemophilus Test Media.4 Anaerobic Techniques For anaerobic bacteria, the susceptibility to cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium as MICs can be determined by standardized test methods.5 The MIC values obtained should be interpreted according to the following criteria: MIC (µg/mL) Interpretation ≤ 16 Susceptible (S) 32 Intermediate (I) ≥ 64 Resistant (R) Interpretation is identical to that stated above for results using dilution techniques. As with other susceptibility techniques, the use of laboratory control microorganisms is required to control the technical aspects of the laboratory standardized procedures. Standardized cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium powder should provide the following MIC values: Microorganism MIC (µ g/mL) Bacteroides fragilisa ATCC 25285 8-32 Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron ATCC 29741 16-64 Eubacterium lantem ATCC 43055 64-256 a Ranges applicable only to tests performed by agar dilution method. REFERENCES 1) Richmond, M. H. and Sykes R. B.: The ß-Lactamases of Gram-Negative Bacteria and their Possible Physiological Role, Advances in Microbial Physiology 9:31-88, 1973. 2) National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards. Methods for Dilution Antimicrobial Susceptibility Tests for Bacteria that Grow Aerobically - Third Edition. Approved Standard NCCLS Document M7-A3, Vol. 13, No. 25, NCCLS, Villanova, PA, December, 1993. 3) National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards. MIC Testing Supplemental Tables NCCLS Document M100-S14, Vol. 24, No. 1. NCCLS, Wayne, PA, January, 2004. 4) National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards. Performance Standard for Antimicrobial Disk Susceptibility Tests - Fifth Edition. Approved Standard NCCLS Document M2-A5, Vol. 13, No. 24, NCCLS, Villanova, PA, December, 1993. 5) National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards. Methods for Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing of Anaerobic Bacteria - Third Edition. Approved Standard NCCLS Document M11-A3, NCCLS, Villanova, PA, December, 1993.

Find Lowest Prices on CLAFORAN® Sterile (cefotaxime) for Injection, USP To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of CLAFORAN (cefotaxime sodium) and other antibacterial drugs, CLAFORAN should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria. DESCRIPTION Sterile CLAFORAN (cefotaxime sodium) is a semisynthetic, broad spectrum cephalosporin antibiotic for parenteral administration. It is the sodium salt of 7-[2-(2-amino-4-thiazolyl) glyoxylamido]-3-(hydroxymethyl)-8-oxo-5-thia-1-azabicyclo [4.2.0] oct-2-ene-2-carboxylate 72 (Z)-(o-methyloxime), acetate (ester). CLAFORAN contains approximately 50.5 mg (2.2 mEq) of sodium per gram of cefotaxime activity. Solutions of CLAFORAN range from very pale yellow to light amber depending on the concentration and the diluent used. The pH of the injectable solutions usually ranges from 5.0 to 7.5. The CAS Registry Number is 64485-93-4. CLAFORAN is supplied as a dry powder in conventional and ADD-Vantage® System compatible vials, infusion bottles, pharmacy bulk package bottles, and as a frozen, premixed, iso-osmotic injection in a buffered diluent solution in plastic containers. CLAFORAN, equivalent to 1 gram and 2 grams cefotaxime, is supplied as frozen, premixed, iso-osmotic injections in plastic containers. Solutions range from very pale yellow to light amber. Dextrose Hydrous, USP has been added to adjust osmolality (approximately 1.7 g and 700 mg to the 1 g and 2 g cefotaxime dosages, respectively). The injections are buffered with sodium citrate hydrous, USP. The pH is adjusted with hydrochloric acid and may be adjusted with sodium hydroxide. The plastic container is fabricated from a specially designed multilayer plastic (PL 2040). Solutions are in contact with the polyethylene layer of this container and can leach out certain chemical components of the plastic in very small amounts within the expiration period. The suitability of the plastic has been confirmed in tests in animals according to the USP biological tests for plastic containers, as well as by tissue culture toxicity studies.

Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection and other antibacterial drugs, Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria. DESCRIPTION Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection is a sterile, nonpyrogenic, single use, packaged combination of Cefotaxime Sodium and Dextrose Injection (diluent) in the DUPLEX sterile container. The DUPLEX Container is a flexible dual chamber container. The drug chamber is filled with sterile Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) Sodium USP, a semisynthetic, broad-spectrum, cephalosporin antibiotic for parenteral administration. It is the sodium salt of 7-[2-(2-amino-4-thiazolyl) glyoxylamido]-3-(hydroxymethyl)-8-oxo-5-thia-1-azabicyclo [4.2.0] oct-2-ene-2-carboxylate 72 (Z)-(o-methyloxime), acetate (ester). The CAS Registry Number is 64485-93-4. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) Sodium has the following structural formula: The empirical formula of Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) Sodium is C16H16N5NaO7S2, representing a molecular weight of 477.45. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) Sodium contains approximately 50.5 mg (2.2 mEq) of sodium per gram of cefotaxime activity. The diluent chamber contains Dextrose Injection. The concentration of Hydrous Dextrose in Water for Injection USP has been adjusted to render the reconstituted drug product iso-osmotic. Dextrose Injection is sterile, nonpyrogenic, and contains no bacteriostatic or antimicrobial agents. Hydrous Dextrose USP has the following structural (molecular) formula: The molecular weight of Hydrous Dextrose USP is 198.17. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) Sodium is supplied as a dry powder form equivalent to either 1 g or 2 g of cefotaxime. Dextrose hydrous USP has been added to the diluent to adjust osmolality (approximately 1.95 g and 1.2 g to 1 g and 2 g dosages, respectively). After removing the peelable foil strip, activating the seals, and thoroughly mixing, the reconstituted drug product is intended for single intravenous use. When reconstituted, the approximate osmolality for the reconstituted solution for Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection is 290 mOsmol/kg. The DUPLEX dual chamber container is made from a specially formulated material. The product (diluent and drug) contact layer is a mixture of thermoplastic rubber and a polypropylene ethylene copolymer that contains no plasticizers. The safety of the container system is supported by USP biological evaluation procedures.

INDICATIONS Treatment CLAFORAN is indicated for the treatment of patients with serious infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the diseases listed below. Lower respiratory tract infections, including pneumonia, caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae (formerly Diplococcus pneumoniae), Streptococcus pyogenes* (Group A streptococci) and other streptococci (excluding enterococci, e.g., Enterococcus faecalis), Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase and non-penicillinase producing), Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Haemophilus influenzae (including ampicillin resistant strains), Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Proteus mirabilis, Serratia marcescens*, Enterobacter species, indole positive Proteus and Pseudomonas species (including P. aeruginosa). Genitourinary infections. Urinary tract infections caused by Enterococcus species, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus*, (penicillinase and non-penicillinase producing), Citrobacter species, Enterobacter species, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris*, Providencia stuartii, Morganella morganii*, Providencia rettgeri*, Serratia marcescens and Pseudomonas species (including P. aeruginosa). Also, uncomplicated gonorrhea (cervical/urethral and rectal) caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, including penicillinase producing strains. Gynecologic infections, including pelvic inflammatory disease, endometritis and pelvic cellulitis caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus species, Enterococcus species, Enterobacter species*, Klebsiella species*, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Bacteroides species (including Bacteroides fragilis*), Clostridium species, and anaerobic cocci (including Peptostreptococcus species and Peptococcus species) and Fusobacterium species (including F. nucleatum*). CLAFORAN, like other cephalosporins, has no activity against Chlamydia trachomatis. Therefore, when cephalosporins are used in the treatment of patients with pelvic inflammatory disease and C. trachomatis is one of the suspected pathogens, appropriate anti-chlamydial coverage should be added. Bacteremia/Septicemia caused by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, and Serratia marcescens, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species (including S. pneumonia). Skin and skin structure infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase and nonpenicillinase producing), Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A streptococci) and other streptococci, Enterococcus species, Acinetobacter species*, Escherichia coli, Citrobacter species (including C. freundii*), Enterobacter species, Klebsiella species, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris*, Morganella morganii, Providencia rettgeri*, Pseudomonas species, Serratia marcescens, Bacteroides species, and anaerobic cocci (including Peptostreptococcus* species and Peptococcus species). Intra-abdominal infections including peritonitis caused by Streptococcus species*, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Bacteroides species, and anaerobic cocci (including Peptostreptococcus* species and Peptococcus* species) Proteus mirabilis*, and Clostridium species*. Bone and/or joint infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase and nonpenicillinase producing strains), Streptococcus species (including S. pyogenes*), Pseudomonas species (including P. aeruginosa*), and Proteus mirabilis*. Central nervous system infections, e.g., meningitis and ventriculitis, caused by Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae* and Escherichia coli*. (*) Efficacy for this organism, in this organ system, has been studied in fewer than 10 infections. Although many strains of enterococci (e.g., S. faecalis) and Pseudomonas species are resistant to cefotaxime sodium in vitro, CLAFORAN has been used successfully in treating patients with infections caused by susceptible organisms. Specimens for bacteriologic culture should be obtained prior to therapy in order to isolate and identify causative organisms and to determine their susceptibilities to CLAFORAN. Therapy may be instituted before results of susceptibility studies are known; however, once these results become available, the antibiotic treatment should be adjusted accordingly. In certain cases of confirmed or suspected gram-positive or gram-negative sepsis or in patients with other serious infections in which the causative organism has not been identified, CLAFORAN may be used concomitantly with an aminoglycoside. The dosage recommended in the labeling of both antibiotics may be given and depends on the severity of the infection and the patient's condition. Renal function should be carefully monitored, especially if higher dosages of the aminoglycosides are to be administered or if therapy is prolonged, because of the potential nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity of aminoglycoside antibiotics. It is possible that nephrotoxicity may be potentiated if CLAFORAN is used concomitantly with an aminoglycoside. Prevention The administration of CLAFORAN preoperatively reduces the incidence of certain infections in patients undergoing surgical procedures (e.g., abdominal or vaginal hysterectomy, gastrointestinal and genitourinary tract surgery) that may be classified as contaminated or potentially contaminated. In patients undergoing cesarean section, intraoperative (after clamping the umbilical cord) and postoperative use of CLAFORAN may also reduce the incidence of certain postoperative infections. See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section. Effective use for elective surgery depends on the time of administration. To achieve effective tissue levels, CLAFORAN should be given 1/2 or 1 1/2 hours before surgery. See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section. For patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery, preoperative bowel preparation by mechanical cleansing as well as with a non-absorbable antibiotic (e.g., neomycin) is recommended. If there are signs of infection, specimens for culture should be obtained for identification of the causative organism so that appropriate therapy may be instituted. To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of CLAFORAN and other antibacterial drugs, CLAFORAN should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy. DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Adults Dosage and route of administration should be determined by susceptibility of the causative organisms, severity of the infection, and the condition of the patient (see table for dosage guideline). CLAFORAN may be administered IM or IV after reconstitution. Premixed CLAFORAN Injection is intended for IV administration after thawing. The maximum daily dosage should not exceed 12 grams. GUIDELINES FOR DOSAGE OF CLAFORAN Type of Infection Daily Dose (grams) Frequency and Route Gonococcal urethritis/ cervicitis in males and females 0.5 0.5 gram IM (single dose) Rectal gonorrhea in females 0.5 0.5 gram IM (single dose) Rectal gonorrhea in males 1 1 gram IM (single dose) Uncomplicated infections 2 1 gram every 12 hours IM or IV Moderate to severe infections 3-6 1-2 grams every 8 hours IM or IV Infections commonly needing antibiotics in higher dosage (e.g., septicemia) 6-8 2 grams every 6-8 hours IV Life-threatening infections up to 12 2 grams every 4 hours IV If C. trachomatis is a suspected pathogen, appropriate anti-chlamydial coverage should be added, because cefotaxime sodium has no activity against this organism. To prevent postoperative infection in contaminated or potentially contaminated surgery, the recommended dose is a single 1 gram IM or IV administered 30 to 90 minutes prior to start of surgery. Cesarean Section Patients The first dose of 1 gram is administered intravenously as soon as the umbilical cord is clamped. The second and third doses should be given as 1 gram intravenously or intramuscularly at 6 and 12 hours after the first dose. Neonates, Infants, and Children The following dosage schedule is recommended: Neonates (birth to 1 month): 0-1 week of age - 50 mg/kg per dose every 12 hours IV 1-4 weeks of age - 50 mg/kg per dose every 8 hours IV It is not necessary to differentiate between premature and normal-gestational age infants. Infants and Children (1 month to 12 years): For body weights less than 50 kg, the recommended daily dose is 50 to 180 mg/kg IM or IV body weight divided into four to six equal doses. The higher dosages should be used for more severe or serious infections, including meningitis. For body weights 50 kg or more, the usual adult dosage should be used; the maximum daily dosage should not exceed 12 grams. Geriatric Use This drug is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of toxic reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function. (See PRECAUTIONS, General and PRECAUTIONS, Geriatric Use.) Impaired Renal Function see PRECAUTIONS, General. NOTE: As with antibiotic therapy in general, administration of CLAFORAN should be continued for a minimum of 48 to 72 hours after the patient defervesces or after evidence of bacterial eradication has been obtained; a minimum of 10 days of treatment is recommended for infections caused by Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci in order to guard against the risk of rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis; frequent bacteriologic and clinical appraisal is necessary during therapy of chronic urinary tract infection and may be required for several months after therapy has been completed; persistent infections may require treatment of several weeks and doses smaller than those indicated above should not be used. Preparation of CLAFORAN Sterile CLAFORAN for IM or IV administration should be reconstituted as follows: Strength Diluent (mL) Withdrawable Volume (mL) Approximate Concentration (mg/mL) 500 mg vial* (IM) 2 2.2 230 1g vial* (IM) 3 3.4 300 2g vial* (IM) 5 6.0 330 500 mg vial* (IV) 10 10.2 50 1g vial* (IV) 10 10.4 95 2g vial* (IV) 10 11.0 180 1g infusion 50-100 50-100 20-10 2g infusion 50-100 50-100 40-20 (*) in conventional vials Shake to dissolve; inspect for particulate matter and discoloration prior to use. Solutions of CLAFORAN range from very pale yellow to light amber, depending on concentration, diluent used, and length and condition of storage. For intramuscular use: Reconstitute VIALS with Sterile Water for Injection or Bacteriostatic Water for Injection as described above. For intravenous use: Reconstitute VIALS with at least 10 mL of Sterile Water for Injection. Reconstitute INFUSION BOTTLES with 50 or 100 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection or 5% Dextrose Injection. For other diluents, see Compatibility And Stability section. NOTE: Solutions of CLAFORAN must not be admixed with aminoglycoside solutions. If CLAFORAN and aminoglycosides are to be administered to the same patient, they must be administered separately and not as mixed injection. A SOLUTION OF 1 G CLAFORAN IN 14 ML OF STERILE WATER FOR INJECTION IS ISOTONIC. IM Administration: As with all IM preparations, CLAFORAN should be injected well within the body of a relatively large muscle such as the upper outer quadrant of the buttock (i.e., gluteus maximus); aspiration is necessary to avoid inadvertent injection into a blood vessel. Individual IM doses of 2 grams may be given if the dose is divided and is administered in different intramuscular sites. IV Administration: The IV route is preferable for patients with bacteremia, bacterial septicemia, peritonitis, meningitis, or other severe or life-threatening infections, or for patients who may be poor risks because of lowered resistance resulting from such debilitating conditions as malnutrition, trauma, surgery, diabetes, heart failure, or malignancy, particularly if shock is present or impending. For intermittent IV administration, a solution containing 1 gram or 2 grams in 10 mL of Sterile Water for Injection can be injected over a period of three to five minutes. Cefotaxime should not be administered over a period of less than three minutes. (See WARNINGS). With an infusion system, it may also be given over a longer period of time through the tubing system by which the patient may be receiving other IV solutions. However, during infusion of the solution containing CLAFORAN, it is advisable to discontinue temporarily the administration of other solutions at the same site. For the administration of higher doses by continuous IV infusion, a solution of CLAFORAN may be added to IV bottles containing the solutions discussed below. Directions for use of CLAFORAN Injection in Galaxy Container (PL 2040 Plastic) CLAFORAN Injection in Galaxy containers (PL 2040 plastic) is for continuous or intermittent infusion using sterile equipment. Storage Store in a freezer capable of maintaining a temperature of -20°C/-4°F. Thawing of Plastic Container Thaw frozen container at room temperature or under refrigeration (at or below 5°C). [DO NOT FORCE THAW BY IMMERSION IN WATER BATHS OR BY MICROWAVE IRRADIATION.] Check for minute leaks by squeezing container firmly. If leaks are detected, discard solution as sterility may be impaired. DO NOT ADD SUPPLEMENTARY MEDICATION. The container should be visually inspected. Components of the solution may precipitate in the frozen state and will dissolve upon reaching room temperature with little or no agitation. Potency is not affected. Agitate after solution has reached room temperature. If after visual inspection the solution remains cloudy or if an insoluble precipitate is noted or if any seals or outlet ports are not intact, the container should be discarded. The thawed solution is stable for 10 days under refrigeration (at or below 5°C) or 24 hours at or below 22°C. Do not refreeze thawed antibiotics. CAUTION: Do not use plastic containers in series connections. Such use could result in air embolism due to residual air being drawn from the primary container before administration of the fluid from the secondary container is complete. Preparation for Intravenous Administration: Suspend container from eyelet support. Remove protector from outlet port at bottom of container. Attach administration set. Refer to complete directions accompanying set. Preparation of CLAFORAN Sterile in ADD-Vantage System CLAFORAN Sterile 1 g or 2 g may be reconstituted in 50 mL or 100 mL of 5% Dextrose or 0.9% Sodium Chloride in the ADD-Vantage diluent container. Refer to enclosed, separate INSTRUCTIONS FOR ADD-VANTAGE SYSTEM. Compatibility and Stability Solutions of CLAFORAN Sterile reconstituted as described above (Preparation of CLAFORAN Sterile) remain chemically stable (potency remains above 90%) as follows when stored in original containers and disposable plastic syringes: Strength Reconstituted Concentration mg/mL Stability at or below 22°C Stability under Refrigeration (at or below 5°C) Original Containers Plastic Syringes 500 mg vial IM 230 12 hours 7 days 5 days 1g vial IM 300 12 hours 7 days 5 days 2g vial IM 330 12 hours 7 days 5 days 500 mg vial IV 50 24 hours 7 days 5 days 1g vial IV 95 24 hours 7 days 5 days 2g vial IV 180 12 hours 7 days 5 days 1g infusion bottle 10-20 24 hours 10 days 2g infusion bottle 20-40 24 hours 10 days Reconstituted solutions stored in original containers and plastic syringes remain stable for 13 weeks frozen. Reconstituted solutions may be further diluted up to 1000 mL with the following solutions and maintain satisfactory potency for 24 hours at or below 22°C, and at least 5 days under refrigeration (at or below 5°C): 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection; 5 or 10% Dextrose Injection; 5% Dextrose and 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, 5% Dextrose and 0.45% Sodium Chloride Injection; 5% Dextrose and 0.2% Sodium Chloride Injection; Lactated Ringer's Solution; Sodium Lactate Injection (M/6); 10% Invert Sugar Injection, 8.5% TRAVASOL® (Amino Acid) Injection without Electrolytes. Solutions of CLAFORAN Sterile reconstituted in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection or 5% Dextrose Injection in Viaflex® plastic containers maintain satisfactory potency for 24 hours at or below 22°C, 5 days under refrigeration (at or below 5°C) and 13 weeks frozen. Solutions of CLAFORAN Sterile reconstituted in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection or 5% Dextrose Injection in the ADD-Vantage flexible containers maintain satisfactory potency for 24 hours at or below 22°C. DO NOT FREEZE. NOTE: CLAFORAN solutions exhibit maximum stability in the pH 5-7 range. Solutions of CLAFORAN should not be prepared with diluents having a pH above 7.5, such as Sodium Bicarbonate Injection. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. HOW SUPPLIED Sterile CLAFORAN is a dry off-white to pale yellow crystalline powder supplied in vials and bottles containing cefotaxime sodium as follows: 500 mg cefotaxime (free acid equivalent) in vials in packages of 10 (NDC 0039-0017-10). 1 g cefotaxime (free acid equivalent) in vials in packages of 10 (NDC 0039-0018-10), packages of 25 (NDC 0039-0018-25), packages of 50 (NDC 0039-0018-50); infusion bottles in packages of 10 (NDC 0039-0018-11). 2 g cefotaxime (free acid equivalent) in vials in packages of 10 (NDC 0039-0019-10), packages of 25 (NDC 0039-0019-25), packages of 50 (NDC 0039-0019-50); infusion bottles in packages of 10 (NDC 0039-0019-11). 1 g cefotaxime (free acid equivalent) in ADD-Vantage System vials in packages of 25 (NDC 00390023-25) and 50 (NDC 0039-0023-50). 2 g cefotaxime (free acid equivalent) in ADD-Vantage System vials in packages of 25 (NDC 00390024-25) and 50 (NDC 0039-0024-50). ADD-Vantage System diluents (5% Dextrose or 0.9% Sodium Chloride) are available from Abbott Laboratories. Also available: Pharmacy Bulk Package: 10g cefotaxime (free acid equivalent) in bottles (NDC 0039-0020-01) NOTE: CLAFORAN in the dry state should be stored below 30°C. The dry material as well as solutions tend to darken depending on storage conditions and should be protected from elevated temperatures and excessive light. Premixed CLAFORAN Injection is supplied as a frozen, iso-osmotic, sterile, nonpyrogenic solution in 50 mL single dose Galaxy containers (PL 2040 plastic) as follows: 1 g cefotaxime (free acid equivalent) in packages of 12 (NDC 0039-0037-05) 2G3518. 2 g cefotaxime (free acid equivalent) in packages of 12 (NDC 0039-0038-05) 2G3519. NOTE: Store Premixed CLAFORAN Injection at or below -20°C/-4°F. [See DIRECTIONS FOR USE OF CLAFORAN (cefotaxime injection) IN GALAXY CONTAINERS (PL 2040 PLASTIC)]. CLAFORAN Injection supplied as a frozen, iso-osmotic, sterile, nonpyrogenic solution in Galaxy containers (PL 2040 plastic) is manufactured for sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC by Baxter Healthcare Corporation. Revised February 2014. Manufactured for: sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC Bridgewater, NJ 08807, Claforan Injection in Galaxy Containers: Manufactured by: Baxter Healthcare Corporation Deerfield, IL 60015. Manufactured for: sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC Bridgewater, NJ 08807

INDICATIONS Treatment Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection is indicated for the treatment of patients with serious infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the diseases listed below. Lower respiratory tract infections, including pneumonia, caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes* (Group A streptococci) and other streptococci (excluding enterococci, e.g., Enterococcus faecalis), Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase and non-penicillinase producing), Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Haemophilus influenzae (including ampicillin resistant strains), Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Proteus mirabilis, Serratia marcescens*, Enterobacter species, indole positive Proteus and Pseudomonas species (including P. aeruginosa). Genitourinary infections. Urinary tract infections caused by Enterococcus species, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus* (penicillinase and non-penicillinase producing), Citrobacter species, Enterobacter species, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris*, Providencia stuartii, Morganella morganii*, Providencia rettgeri*, Serratia marcescens and Pseudomonas species (including P. aeruginosa). Gynecologic infections, including pelvic inflammatory disease, endometritis and pelvic cellulitis caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus species, Enterococcus species, Enterobacter species*, Klebsiella species*, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Bacteroides species (including Bacteroides fragilis*), Clostridium species, and anaerobic cocci (including Peptostreptococcus species and Peptococcus species) and Fusobacterium species (including F. nucleatum*). Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) , like other cephalosporins, has no activity against Chlamydia trachomatis. Therefore, when cephalosporins are used in the treatment of patients with pelvic inflammatory disease and C. trachomatis is one of the suspected pathogens, appropriate anti-chlamydial coverage should be added. Bacteremia/Septicemia caused by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, and Serratia marcescens, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species (including S. pneumoniae). Skin and skin structure infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase and non-penicillinase producing), Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A streptococci) and other streptococci, Enterococcus species, Acinetobacter species*, Escherichia coli, Citrobacter species (including C. freundii*), Enterobacter species, Klebsiella species, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris*, Morganella morganii, Providencia rettgeri*, Pseudomonas species, Serratia marcescens, Bacteroides species, and anaerobic cocci (including Peptostreptococcus* species and Peptococcus species). Intra-abdominal infections including peritonitis caused by Streptococcus species*, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Bacteroides species, and anaerobic cocci (including Peptostreptococcus* species and Peptococcus* species) Proteus mirabilis*, and Clostridium species*. Bone and/or joint infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase and non-penicillinase producing strains), Streptococcus species (including S. pyogenes*), Pseudomonas species (including P. aeruginosa*), and Proteus mirabilis*. Central nervous system infections, e.g., meningitis and ventriculitis, caused by Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae* and Escherichia coli*. (*) Efficacy for this organism, in this organ system, has been studied in fewer than 10 infections. Although many strains of enterococci (e.g., E. faecalis) and Pseudomonas species are resistant to cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium in vitro, cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) has been used successfully in treating patients with infections caused by susceptible organisms. Specimens for bacteriologic culture should be obtained prior to therapy in order to isolate and identify causative organisms and to determine their susceptibilities to cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) . Therapy may be instituted before results of susceptibility studies are known; however, once these results become available, the antibiotic treatment should be adjusted accordingly. In certain cases of confirmed or suspected gram-positive or gram-negative sepsis or in patients with other serious infections in which the causative organism has not been identified, cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) may be used concomitantly with an aminoglycoside. The dosage recommended in the labeling of both antibiotics may be given and depends on the severity of the infection and the patient's condition. Renal function should be carefully monitored, especially if higher dosages of the aminoglycosides are to be administered or if therapy is prolonged, because of the potential nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity of aminoglycoside antibiotics. It is possible that nephrotoxicity may be potentiated if cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) is used concomitantly with an aminoglycoside. Prevention The administration of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) preoperatively reduces the incidence of certain infections in patients undergoing surgical procedures (e.g., abdominal or vaginal hysterectomy, gastrointestinal and genitourinary tract surgery) that may be classified as contaminated or potentially contaminated. In patients undergoing cesarean section, intraoperative (after clamping the umbilical cord) and postoperative use of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) may also reduce the incidence of certain postoperative infections. See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section. Effective use for elective surgery depends on the time of administration. To achieve effective tissue levels, cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) should be given 1/2 or 1 1/2 hours before surgery. See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section. For patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery, preoperative bowel preparation by mechanical cleansing as well as with a non-absorbable antibiotic (e.g., neomycin) is recommended. If there are signs of infection, specimens for culture should be obtained for identification of the causative organism so that appropriate therapy may be instituted. To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection and other antibacterial drugs, Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy. DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION This product is intended for intravenous administration only. Adults Geriatric Use This drug is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of toxic reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function (see PRECAUTIONS, General and PRECAUTIONS, Geriatric Use). Dosage and route of administration should be determined by susceptibility of the causative organisms, severity of the infection, and the condition of the patient (see table for dosage guideline). Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection is intended for IV administration after reconstitution. The maximum daily dosage should not exceed 12 grams. GUIDELINES FOR DOSAGE OF CEFOTAXIME (cefotaxime for injection) FOR INJECTION USP AND DEXTROSE INJECTION Type of Infection Daily Dose (grams) Frequency Uncomplicated infections 2 1 gram every 12 hours Moderate to severe infections 3-6 1-2 grams every 8 hours Infections commonly needing antibiotics in higher dosage (e.g., septicemia) 6-8 2 grams every 6-8 hours Life-threatening infections up to 12 2 grams every 4 hours To prevent postoperative infection in contaminated or potentially contaminated surgery, the recommended dose is a single 1 gram IV administered 30 to 90 minutes prior to start of surgery. Cesarean Section Patients The first dose of 1 gram is administered intravenously as soon as the umbilical cord is clamped. The second and third doses should be given as 1 gram intravenously at 6 and 12 hours after the first dose. Pediatric Patients For body weights less than 50 kg, the recommended daily dose is 50 to 180 mg/kg body weight divided into four to six equal doses. The higher dosages should be used for more severe or serious infections, including meningitis. For body weights 50 kg or more, the usual adult dosage should be used; the maximum daily dosage should not exceed 12 grams. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection in the DUPLEX® Container is designed to deliver 1 g or 2 g dose of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) . To prevent unintentional overdose, this product should not be used in pediatric patients who require less than the full adult dose of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) . Impaired Renal Function see PRECAUTIONS section. NOTE: As with antibiotic therapy in general, administration of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) should be continued for a minimum of 48 to 72 hours after the patient defervesces or after evidence of bacterial eradication has been obtained; a minimum of 10 days of treatment is recommended for infections caused by Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci in order to guard against the risk of rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis; frequent bacteriologic and clinical appraisal is necessary during therapy of chronic urinary tract infection and may be required for several months after therapy has been completed; persistent infections may require treatment of several weeks and doses smaller than those indicated above should not be used. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. DUPLEX® Drug Delivery System Directions for Use Removal from Multi-Pack Tray Tear tape strips from one or both sides of the tray. Remove top tray. To avoid inadvertent activation, DUPLEX Container should remain in th folded position until activation is intended. Patient Labeling and Drug Powder/Diluent Inspection Apply patient-specific label on foil side of container. USE CARE to avoid activation. Do not cover any portion of foil strip with patient labe Unlatch side tab and unfold Duplex Container. (See Diagram 1.) Visually inspect diluent chamber for particulate matter. Use only if container and seals are intact. To inspect the drug powder for foreign matter or discoloration, peel foil strip from drug chamber. (See Diagram 2.) Protect from light after removal of foil strip. Note: If foil strip is removed, product must be used within 30 days, but not beyond the labeled expiration date. The product should be re-folded and the side tab latched until ready to activate. Reconstitution (Activation) Do not use directly after storage by refrigeration, allow the product to equilibrate to room temperature before patient use. Unfold the DUPLEX Container and point the set port in a downward direction. Starting at the hanger tab end, fold the DUPLEX Container just below the diluent meniscus trapping all air above the fold. To activate, squeeze the folded diluent chamber until the seal between the diluent and powder opens, releasing diluent into the drug powder chamber. (See Diagram 3.) Agitate the liquid-powder mixture until the drug powder is completely dissolved. Note: Following reconstitution (activation), product must be used within 12 hours if stored at room temperature or within 5 days if stored under refrigeration. Administration Visually inspect the reconstituted solution for particulate matter. Point the set port in a downwards direction. Starting at the hanger tab end, fold the DUPLEX® Container just below the solution meniscus trapping all air above the fold. Squeeze the folded DUPLEX Container until the seal between reconstituted drug solution and set port opens, releasing liquid to set port. (See Diagram 4.) Prior to attaching the IV set, check for minute leaks by squeezing container firmly. If leaks are found, discard container and solution as sterility may be impaired. Using aseptic technique, remove the set port cover from the set port and attach sterile administration set. Refer to Directions for Use accompanying the administration set. Precautions As with other cephalosporins, reconstituted Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection tends to darken depending on storage conditions, within the stated recommendations. However, product potency is not adversely affected. Use only if prepared solution is clear and free from particulate matter. Do not use in series connection. Do not introduce additives into the DUPLEX Container. Do not freeze. HOW SUPPLIED Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection in the DUPLEX Drug Delivery System is a flexible dual chamber container supplied in two concentrations. After reconstitution, the concentrations are equivalent to 1 g and 2 g cefotaxime. The diluent chamber contains approximately 50 mL of Dextrose Injection. Dextrose Injection has been adjusted to 3.9% and 2.4% for the 1 g and 2 g doses, respectively, such that the reconstituted solution is iso-osmotic. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection is supplied sterile and nonpyrogenic in the DUPLEX Drug Delivery System Containers packaged 12 units per tray, 2 trays per case. NDC Cat. No. Dose Volume Cefotaxime for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection 0264-3133-11 3133-11 1 g 50 mL Cefotaxime for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection 0264-3135-11 3135-11 2 g 50 mL Store the unactivated unit at 20-25°C (68-77°F). Excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F). DUPLEX® is a registered trademark of B. Braun Medical Inc. U.S. Patent Nos. D388,168, D397,789, D402,366, D407,816, 5,944,709, and 6,165,161; additional patents pending. Made in USA Revised: January 2007 Braun Medical Inc. Irvine, CA USA 92614-5895. FDA Rev date: 9/10/2007

PATIENT INFORMATION Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including CLAFORAN should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When CLAFORAN is prescribed to treat a bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by CLAFORAN or other antibacterial drugs in the future. Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibiotics which usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibiotics, patients can develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibiotic. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible.

PATIENT INFORMATION Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibiotics which usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibiotics, patients can develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibiotic. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible. Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection is prescribed to treat a bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection or other antibacterial drugs in the future. Please also refer to the Patient Labeling section under DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION.

OVERDOSE The acute toxicity of CLAFORAN was evaluated in neonatal and adult mice and rats. Significant mortality was seen at parenteral doses in excess of 6000 mg/kg/day in all groups. Common toxic signs in animals that died were a decrease in spontaneous activity, tonic and clonic convulsions, dyspnea, hypothermia, and cyanosis. Cefotaxime sodium overdosage has occurred in patients. Most cases have shown no overt toxicity. The most frequent reactions were elevations of BUN and creatinine. There is a risk of reversible encephalopathy in cases of administration of high doses of beta-lactam antibiotics including cefotaxime. No specific antidote exists. Patients who receive an acute overdosage should be carefully observed and given supportive treatment. CONTRAINDICATIONS CLAFORAN is contraindicated in patients who have shown hypersensitivity to cefotaxime sodium, or the cephalosporin group of antibiotics.

OVERDOSE The acute toxicity of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) was evaluated in neonatal and adult mice and rats. Significant mortality was seen at parenteral doses in excess of 6000 mg/kg/day in all groups. Common toxic signs in animals that died were a decrease in spontaneous activity, tonic and clonic convulsions, dyspnea, hypothermia, and cyanosis. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium overdosage has occurred in patients. Most cases have shown no overt toxicity. The most frequent reactions were elevations of BUN and creatinine. Patients who receive an acute overdosage should be carefully observed and given supportive treatment. CONTRAINDICATIONS Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection is contraindicated in patients who have shown hypersensitivity to cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium or the cephalosporin group of antibiotics. Solutions containing dextrose may be contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to corn products.

SIDE EFFECTS Clinical Trials Experience CLAFORAN is generally well tolerated. The most common adverse reactions have been local reactions following IM or IV injection. Other adverse reactions have been encountered infrequently. The most frequent adverse reactions (greater than 1%) are: Local (4.3%) -Injection site inflammation with IV administration. Pain, induration, and tenderness after IM injection. Hypersensitivity (2.4%) -Rash, pruritus, fever, eosinophilia. Gastrointestinal (1.4%) -Colitis, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms of pseudomembranous colitis can appear during or after antibiotic treatment. Nausea and vomiting have been reported rarely. Less frequent adverse reactions (less than 1%) are: Hematologic System -Neutropenia, transient leukopenia, have been reported. Some individuals have developed positive direct Coombs Tests during treatment with CLAFORAN and other cephalosporin antibiotics. Genitourinary System -Moniliasis, vaginitis. Central Nervous System -Headache. Liver -Transient elevations in AST, ALT, serum LDH, and serum alkaline phosphatase levels have been reported. Kidney -As with some other cephalosporins, transient elevations of BUN have been occasionally observed with CLAFORAN. Post-Marketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of CLAFORAN. Because these reactions were reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Cardiovascular System -Potentially life-threatening arrhythmias following rapid (less than 60 seconds) bolus administration via central venous catheter have been observed. Central Nervous System -Administration of high doses of beta-lactam antibiotics, including cefotaxime, particularly in patients with renal insufficiency may result in encephalopathy (e.g. impairment of consciousness, abnormal movements and convulsions). Cutaneous -As with other cephalosporins, isolated cases of toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and erythema multiforme have been reported. Hematologic System -Hemolytic anemia, agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia. Hypersensitivity -Anaphylaxis (e.g., angioedema, bronchospasm, malaise possibly culminating in shock), urticaria. Kidney -Interstitial nephritis, transient elevations of creatinine. Liver -Hepatitis, jaundice, cholestasis, elevations of gamma GT and bilirubin. Cephalosporin Class Labeling In addition to the adverse reactions listed above which have been observed in patients treated with cefotaxime sodium, the following adverse reactions and altered laboratory tests have been reported for cephalosporin class antibiotics: allergic reactions, hepatic dysfunction including cholestasis, aplastic anemia, hemorrhage, and false-positive test for urinary glucose. Several cephalosporins have been implicated in triggering seizures, particularly in patients with renal impairment when the dosage was not reduced. See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and OVERDOSAGE. If seizures associated with drug therapy occur, the drug should be discontinued. Anticonvulsant therapy can be given if clinically indicated. DRUG INTERACTIONS Increased nephrotoxicity has been reported following concomitant administration of cephalosporins and aminoglycoside antibiotics. Probenecid interferes with the renal tubular transfer of cefotaxime, decreasing the total clearance of cefotaxime by approximately 50% and increasing the plasma concentrations of cefotaxime. Administration of cefotaxime in excess of 6 grams/day should be avoided in patients receiving probenecid (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Drug Interactions). Drug/Laboratory Test Interactions Cephalosporins, including cefotaxime sodium, are known to occasionally induce a positive direct Coombs' test. A false-positive reaction for glucose in the urine may occur with copper reduction tests (Benedict's or Fehling's solution or with CLINITEST® tablets), but not with enzyme-based tests for glycosuria. (e.g., CLINISTIX® or TesTape®). There are no reports in published literature that link elevations of plasma glucose levels to the use of cefotaxime.

SIDE EFFECTS Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) is generally well tolerated. The most common adverse reactions have been local reactions following IV injection. Other adverse reactions have been encountered infrequently. The most frequent adverse reactions (greater than 1%) are: Local (4.3%)— Injection site inflammation with IV administration. Hypersensitivity (2.4%)—Rash, pruritus, fever, eosinophilia and less frequently urticaria and anaphylaxis. Gastrointestinal (1.4%)—Colitis, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms of pseudomembranous colitis can appear during or after antibiotic treatment. Nausea and vomiting have been reported rarely. Less frequent adverse reactions (less than 1%) are: Cardiovascular System—Potentially life-threatening arrhythmias following rapid (less than 60 seconds) bolus administration via central venous catheter have been observed. Hematologic System—Neutropenia, transient leukopenia, eosinophilia, thrombocytopenia and agranulocytosis have been reported. Some individuals have developed positive direct Coombs Tests during treatment with cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) and other cephalosporin antibiotics. Rare cases of hemolytic anemia have been reported. Genitourinary System—Moniliasis, vaginitis. Central Nervous System—Headache, encephalopathy. Liver—Transient elevations in SGOT, SGPT, serum LDH, and serum alkaline phosphatase levels have been reported. Kidney—As with some other cephalosporins, interstitial nephritis and transient elevations of BUN and creatinine have been occasionally observed with cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) . Cutaneous—As with other cephalosporins, isolated cases of erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis have been reported. Cephalosporin Class Labeling In addition to the adverse reactions listed above which have been observed in patients treated with cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium, the following adverse reactions and altered laboratory tests have been reported for cephalosporin class antibiotics: allergic reactions, hepatic dysfunction including cholestasis, aplastic anemia, hemorrhage, and false-positive test for urinary glucose. Several cephalosporins have been implicated in triggering seizures, particularly in patients with renal impairment when the dosage was not reduced. See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and OVERDOSAGE. If seizures associated with drug therapy occur, the drug should be discontinued. Anticonvulsant therapy can be given if clinically indicated. DRUG INTERACTIONS Increased nephrotoxicity has been reported following concomitant administration of cephalosporins and aminoglycoside antibiotics. Drug/Laboratory Test Interactions Cephalosporins, including cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium, are known to occasionally induce a positive direct Coombs test.

WARNINGS BEFORE THERAPY WITH CLAFORAN IS INSTITUTED, CAREFUL INQUIRY SHOULD BE MADE TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE PATIENT HAS HAD PREVIOUS HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS TO CEFOTAXIME SODIUM, CEPHALOSPORINS, PENICILLINS, OR OTHER DRUGS. THIS PRODUCT SHOULD BE GIVEN WITH CAUTION TO PATIENTS WITH TYPE I HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS TO PENICILLIN. ANTIBIOTICS SHOULD BE ADMINISTERED WITH CAUTION TO ANY PATIENT WHO HAS DEMONSTRATED SOME FORM OF ALLERGY, PARTICULARLY TO DRUGS. IF AN ALLERGIC REACTION TO CLAFORAN OCCURS, DISCONTINUE TREATMENT WITH THE DRUG. SERIOUS HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS MAY REQUIRE EPINEPHRINE AND OTHER EMERGENCY MEASURES. During post-marketing surveillance, a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia was reported in each of six patients who received a rapid (less than 60 seconds) bolus injection of cefotaxime through a central venous catheter. Therefore, cefotaxime should only be administered as instructed in the DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section. Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including CLAFORAN, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile. C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated. PRECAUTIONS General Prescribing CLAFORAN in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria. CLAFORAN should be prescribed with caution in individuals with a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis. Because high and prolonged serum antibiotic concentrations can occur from usual doses in patients with transient or persistent reduction of urinary output because of renal insufficiency, the total daily dosage should be reduced when CLAFORAN is administered to such patients. Continued dosage should be determined by degree of renal impairment, severity of infection, and susceptibility of the causative organism. Although there is no clinical evidence supporting the necessity of changing the dosage of cefotaxime sodium in patients with even profound renal dysfunction, it is suggested that, until further data are obtained, the dose of cefotaxime sodium be halved in patients with estimated creatinine clearances of less than 20 mL/min/1.73 m² . When only serum creatinine is available, the following formula5 (based on sex, weight, and age of the patient) may be used to convert this value into creatinine clearance. The serum creatinine should represent a steady state of renal function. Weight (kg) x (140 -age) Males: 72 x serum creatinine Females: 0.85 x above value As with other antibiotics, prolonged use of CLAFORAN may result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms. Repeated evaluation of the patient's condition is essential. If superinfection occurs during therapy, appropriate measures should be taken. As with other beta-lactam antibiotics, granulocytopenia and, more rarely, agranulocytosis may develop during treatment with CLAFORAN, particularly if given over long periods. For courses of treatment lasting longer than 10 days, blood counts should therefore be monitored. CLAFORAN, like other parenteral anti-infective drugs, may be locally irritating to tissues. In most cases, perivascular extravasation of CLAFORAN responds to changing of the infusion site. In rare instances, extensive perivascular extravasation of CLAFORAN may result in tissue damage and require surgical treatment. To minimize the potential for tissue inflammation, infusion sites should be monitored regularly and changed when appropriate. REFERENCES 5. Cockcroft, D.W. and Gault, M.H.: Prediction of Creatinine Clearance from Serum Creatinine, Nephron 16:31-41, 1976. Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis Lifetime studies in animals to evaluate carcinogenic potential have not been conducted. CLAFORAN was not mutagenic in the mouse micronucleus test or in the Ames test. CLAFORAN did not impair fertility to rats when administered subcutaneously at doses up to 250 mg/kg/day (0.2 times the maximum recommended human dose based on mg/m²) or in mice when administered intravenously at doses up to 2000 mg/kg/day (0.7 times the recommended human dose based on mg/m²). Pregnancy Teratogenic Effects - Pregnancy Category B Reproduction studies have been performed in pregnant mice given CLAFORAN intravenously at doses up to 1200 mg/kg/day (0.4 times the recommended human dose based on mg/m²) or in pregnant rats when administered intravenously at doses up to 1200 mg/kg/day (0.8 times the recommended human dose based on mg/m²). No evidence of embryotoxicity or teratogenicity was seen in these studies. Although cefotaxime has been reported to cross the placental barrier and appear in cord blood, the effect on the human fetus is not known. There are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproductive studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Nonteratogenic Effects Use of the drug in women of child-bearing potential requires that the anticipated benefit be weighed against the possible risks. In perinatal and postnatal studies with rats, the pups in the group given 1200 mg/kg/day of CLAFORAN were significantly lighter in weight at birth and remained smaller than pups in the control group during the 21 days of nursing. Nursing Mothers CLAFORAN is excreted in human milk in low concentrations. Caution should be exercised when CLAFORAN is administered to a nursing woman. Pediatric Use See Precautions above regarding perivascular extravasation. The potential for toxic effects in pediatric patients from chemicals that may leach from the plastic in single dose Galaxy® containers (premixed CLAFORAN Injection) has not been determined. Geriatric Use Of the 1409 subjects in clinical studies of cefotaxime, 632 (45%) were 65 and over, while 258 (18%) were 75 and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out. This drug is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of toxic reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function (see PRECAUTIONS, General).

WARNINGS BEFORE THERAPY WITH CEFOTAXIME (cefotaxime for injection) FOR INJECTION USP AND DEXTROSE INJECTION IS INSTITUTED, CAREFUL INQUIRY SHOULD BE MADE TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE PATIENT HAS HAD PREVIOUS HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS TO CEFOTAXIME (cefotaxime for injection) SODIUM, CEPHALOSPORINS, PENICILLINS, OR OTHER DRUGS. THIS PRODUCT SHOULD BE GIVEN WITH CAUTION TO PATIENTS WITH TYPE I HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS TO PENICILLIN. ANTIBIOTICS SHOULD BE ADMINISTERED WITH CAUTION TO ANY PATIENT WHO HAS DEMONSTRATED SOME FORM OF ALLERGY, PARTICULARLY TO DRUGS. IF AN ALLERGIC REACTION TO CEFOTAXIME (cefotaxime for injection) FOR INJECTION USP AND DEXTROSE INJECTION OCCURS, DISCONTINUE TREATMENT WITH THE DRUG. SERIOUS HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS MAY REQUIRE EPINEPHRINE AND OTHER EMERGENCY MEASURES. During post-marketing surveillance, a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia was reported in each of six patients who received a rapid (less than 60 seconds) bolus injection of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) through a central venous catheter. Therefore, cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) should only be administered as instructed in the DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section. Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile. C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated. PRECAUTIONS General Prescribing Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection should be prescribed with caution in individuals with a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis. Because high and prolonged serum antibiotic concentrations can occur from usual doses in patients with transient or persistent reduction of urinary output because of renal insufficiency, the total daily dosage should be reduced when cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) is administered to such patients. Continued dosage should be determined by degree of renal impairment, severity of infection, and susceptibility of the causative organism. It is suggested that, based upon the data available from published studies the dose of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) sodium be halved in patients with estimated creatinine clearances of less than 20 mL/min/1.73 m2. When only serum creatinine is available, the following formula6 (based on sex, weight, and age of the patient) may be used to convert this value into creatinine clearance. The serum creatinine should represent a steady state of renal function. Males: Weight (kg) x (140 - age) 72 x serum creatinine Females: 0.85 x above value As with other antibiotics, prolonged use of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) may result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms. Repeated evaluation of the patient's condition is essential. If superinfection occurs during therapy, appropriate measures should be taken. As with other beta-lactam antibiotics, granulocytopenia and, more rarely, agranulocytosis may develop during treatment with cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) , particularly if given over long periods. For courses of treatment lasting longer than 10 days, blood counts should therefore be monitored. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) , like other parenteral anti-infective drugs, may be locally irritating to tissues. In most cases, perivascular extravasation of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) responds to changing of the infusion site. In rare instances, extensive perivascular extravasation of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) may result in tissue damage and require surgical treatment. To minimize the potential for tissue inflammation, infusion sites should be monitored regularly and changed when appropriate. As with other dextrose-containing solutions, Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection should be prescribed with caution in patients with overt or known subclinical diabetes mellitus or carbohydrate intolerance for any reason. If administration is controlled by a pumping device, care must be taken to discontinue pumping action before the container runs dry or air embolism may result. Use only if solution is clear and container and seals are intact. Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis Lifetime studies in animals to evaluate carcinogenic potential have not been conducted. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) was not mutagenic in the mouse micronucleus test or in the Ames' test. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) did not impair fertility to rats when administered subcutaneously at doses up to 250 mg/kg/day (0.2 times the maximum recommended human dose based on mg/m2) or in mice when administered intravenously at doses up to 2000 mg/kg/day (0.7 times the recommended human dose based on mg/m2). Pregnancy: Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category B: Reproduction studies have been performed in pregnant mice given cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) intravenously at doses up to 1200 mg/kg/day (0.4 times the recommended human dose based on mg/m2) or in pregnant rats when administered intravenously at doses up to 1200 mg/kg/day (0.8 times the recommended human dose based on mg/m2). No evidence of embryotoxicity or teratogenicity was seen in these studies. There are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproductive studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Nonteratogenic Effects Use of the drug in women of child-bearing potential requires that the anticipated benefit be weighed against the possible risks. In perinatal and postnatal studies with rats, the pups in the group given 1200 mg/kg/day of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) were significantly lighter in weight at birth and remained smaller than pups in the control group during the 21 days of nursing. Nursing Mothers Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) is excreted in human milk in low concentrations. Caution should be exercised when cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) is administered to a nursing woman. Pediatric Use See PRECAUTIONS above regarding perivascular extravasation. Cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) for Injection USP and Dextrose Injection in the DUPLEX® Container is designed to deliver a 1 g or 2 g dose of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) . To prevent unintentional overdose, this product should not be used in pediatric patients who require less than the full adult dose of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) . Geriatric Use Of the 1409 subjects in clinical studies of cefotaxime (cefotaxime for injection) , 632 (45%) were 65 and over, while 258 (18%) were 75 and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out. This drug is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of toxic reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function (see PRECAUTIONS, General). REFERENCES 6) Cockcroft, D.W. and Gault, M.H.: Prediction of Creatinine Clearance from Serum Creatinine, Nephron 16:31-41, 1976.