Military Obstetrics & Gynecology
Pharmacy

Cephapirin (Cefadyl)

Category:

• Antibiotic

Description:

• Cephalosporin, First Generation

Indications:

• Respiratory tract infections (S. pneumoniae, Klebsiella species, H. influenzae, S. aureus, group A beta-hemolytic streptococci)

• Skin infections (S. aureus, S. epidermidis, E. coli, P. mirabilis, Klebsiella species, group A beta-hemolytic streptococci)

• Urinary tract infections (E. coli, Klebsiella species, P. mirabilis, S. aureus)

• Septicemia (S. viridans, S. aureus, Klebsiella species, E. coli, group A beta-hemolytic streptococci)

• Endocarditis (S. aureus, S. viridans)

• Osteomyelitis (S. aureus, P. mirabilis, Klebsiella species, group A beta-hemolytic streptococci)

Contraindications:

• Cross sensitivity with penicillin allergies

Precautions:

• Pregnancy category B

• Use with caution in patients with penicillin allergy (5-10% chance of cross-reactivity)

Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

• Hypersensitivity reactions

• Gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

• Vaginitis

Dosage:

• Administered by IM or IV injection

• Adults:

  • 500mg – 1 gram every 4-6 hours IM or IV

  • Serious infections: up to 12 grams per day, generally by IV infusion

• Perioperative prophylaxis:

  • Pre-op: 1-2 grams IV or IM, 30 to 60 minutes pre-surgery

  • Intra-operative: 1-2 grams IV or IM during surgery

  • Post-operative: 1-2 grams IV or IM every 6 hours for 24 hours post-op

• Children:

  • 40-80mg/kg/day administered in 4 equal doses