cefeprime 500mg injection - Cefepime (500mg) medicine

Cefepime 500mg Injection: Comprehensive Medicine Guide

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🏭 Veritaz Healthcare Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 17, 2026
⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for approved indications.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 17, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or throat
  • Severe, persistent diarrhea or bloody stools
  • Seizures or confusion
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Decreased urine output or swelling in the legs
  • Severe skin rash with blisters or peeling
  • High fever with chills that does not improve

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is cefeprime 500mg injection used for?

This medicine is a fourth-generation cephalosporin antibiotic given intravenously to treat severe bacterial infections. It works by breaking down the bacterial cell wall, leading to bacterial death. It is effective against many gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

  • Generic Name: Cefepime
  • Manufacturer: Veritaz Healthcare Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 cefeprime 500mg injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा सेफेपाइम 500mg इंजेक्शन है, जो एक चौथी पीढ़ी का सेफलोस्पोरिन एंटीबायोटिक है। इसका उपयोग गंभीर बैक्टीरियल संक्रमणों जैसे निमोनिया, मूत्र मार्ग संक्रमण, त्वचा संक्रमण और बुखार के साथ न्यूट्रोपेनिया के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर की देखरेख में अस्पताल में दी जाती है। यह वायरल संक्रमण जैसे सर्दी-जुकाम के लिए प्रभावी नहीं है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में इंजेक्शन स्थल पर दर्द, दस्त, मतली, उल्टी, दाने और सिरदर्द शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में एलर्जी, गंभीर दस्त, दौरे और रक्त विकार शामिल हो सकते हैं। यदि आपको कोई गंभीर लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल स्वास्थ्य पेशेवर द्वारा अस्पताल में दी जानी चाहिए। इससे पहले कि आपको यह दवा दी जाए, अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी एलर्जी, गुर्दे की बीमारी, कोलाइटिस या दौरे के इतिहास के बारे में बताएं। इस दवा को लेते समय शराब न पिएं। यदि आपको गंभीर दस्त, पेट दर्द या एलर्जी के लक्षण हों तो तुरंत चिकित्सा सहायता लें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 cefeprime 500mg injection Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Community-acquired pneumonia","description":"Used to treat moderate to severe community-acquired pneumonia caused by susceptible bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Hospital-acquired pneumonia","description":"Effective against hospital-acquired pneumonia, including ventilator-associated pneumonia, caused by gram-negative bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Urinary tract infections","description":"Used for complicated urinary tract infections, including pyelonephritis, caused by susceptible gram-negative bacteria.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Skin and soft tissue infections","description":"Treats complicated skin and soft tissue infections, including cellulitis and abscesses, caused by susceptible organisms.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Febrile neutropenia","description":"Used as empiric therapy for febrile neutropenia in cancer patients, often in combination with other antibiotics.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Intra-abdominal infections","description":"Used in combination with other antibiotics for complicated intra-abdominal infections.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Meningitis","description":"May be used for bacterial meningitis caused by susceptible organisms, though other agents may be preferred.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Prophylaxis in surgical procedures","description":"Sometimes used off-label for surgical prophylaxis in patients allergic to other antibiotics.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Bone and joint infections","description":"Occasionally used off-label for osteomyelitis and septic arthritis caused by susceptible bacteria.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Bacterial infections

Also treats: Pneumonia, Urinary tract infections, Skin infections, Febrile neutropenia, Intra-abdominal infections

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Cefepime
Brand NameAppime 250mg Injection
ManufacturerVeritaz Healthcare Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI INFECTIVES
Action ClassCephalosporins: 4th generation
Route of AdministrationIntravenous (IV) infusion over 30 minutes or IV injection over 3-5 minutes
StorageStore the unreconstituted vial at room temperature (20-25°C). After reconstitution, the solution should be used immediately or stored as per the manufacturer's instructions. Protect from light and freezing.
Shelf LifeRefer to the product packaging for the expiration date. Typically 24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always verify the patient's allergy history before administering this medicine, especially to penicillins and cephalosporins.
2
Adjust the dose in patients with renal impairment to prevent neurotoxicity and seizures.
3
Monitor renal function and complete blood counts during prolonged therapy.
4
Consider the local antibiogram when choosing empiric therapy with this medicine.
5
Educate patients to report any severe diarrhea, as it may indicate Clostridioides difficile infection.
6
Use the correct infusion rate to avoid injection site reactions and other adverse effects.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Fever with chills
This medicine is used for severe bacterial infections that may cause fever.
Likely Use
✅
Cough with yellow or green sputum
This medicine is used for bacterial pneumonia.
Likely Use
✅
Burning during urination
This medicine is used for complicated urinary tract infections.
Likely Use
❌
Runny nose and sneezing
This medicine is not effective for viral infections like the common cold.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionCefepime is administered intravenously and is completely bioavailable. It is not absorbed orally.
DistributionCefepime distributes widely into body tissues and fluids, including bronchial secretions, bile, cerebrospinal fluid (especially in the presence of inflammation), peritoneal fluid, and urine. It has a volume of distribution of approximately 0.2 L/kg in healthy adults.
Protein BindingApproximately 16-19% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismCefepime is minimally metabolized in the liver. It is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life is approximately 2 hours in healthy adults with normal renal function. It is prolonged in patients with renal impairment.
ExcretionCefepime is excreted primarily unchanged in the urine by glomerular filtration, with approximately 85% of the dose recovered in urine within 24 hours.
Bioavailability100% (intravenous administration).
Onset of ActionRapid onset; peak plasma concentrations are achieved immediately after intravenous administration.
Peak Plasma TimeImmediately after intravenous infusion (at the end of infusion).
Duration of ActionThe duration of action depends on the dosing interval and renal function. With normal renal function, effective concentrations are maintained for approximately 8-12 hours after a single dose.

How It Works

Cefepime is a fourth-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). This binding interferes with the cross-linking of peptidoglycan strands, leading to weakening of the bacterial cell wall and ultimately cell lysis and death. Cefepime has enhanced activity against gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and retains activity against many gram-positive bacteria. It is stable against many beta-lactamases, but can be hydrolyzed by extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) and carbapenemases.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to penicillin-binding proteins: Cefepime binds to specific penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located on the bacterial cell membrane, inhibiting their function.
2
Inhibition of cell wall synthesis: By binding to PBPs, cefepime blocks the transpeptidation reaction that cross-links peptidoglycan chains, essential for cell wall integrity.
3
Activation of autolysins: The disruption of cell wall synthesis leads to activation of bacterial autolytic enzymes that further degrade the cell wall.
4
Bacterial cell lysis: The weakened cell wall cannot withstand osmotic pressure, resulting in cell lysis and bacterial death.

💡 How to Take cefeprime 500mg injection

Strength: Cefepime 500mg powder for injection.

1This medicine is administered by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
2It is given as an intravenous infusion over 30 minutes or as a slow intravenous injection over 3-5 minutes.
3The dose and frequency will be determined by your doctor based on your condition and kidney function.
4Do not attempt to self-administer this injection.
5Report any discomfort or unusual symptoms during the infusion to your healthcare provider immediately.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 1-2 grams intravenously every 8-12 hours, depending on the type and severity of infection. For severe infections, doses up to 2 grams every 8 hours may be used. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. In patients with renal impairment, dose adjustment is required.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may have decreased renal function, which can increase the risk of toxicity. Dose should be adjusted based on renal function. Monitor closely for neurological symptoms.
Renal ImpairmentDose adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment. For creatinine clearance (CrCl) 30-60 mL/min, the usual dose is 1-2 g every 12 hours. For CrCl 11-29 mL/min, 1-2 g every 24 hours. For CrCl ≤10 mL/min, 500 mg-1 g every 24 hours. For hemodialysis patients, a loading dose of 1 g is given, followed by 500 mg every 24 hours after dialysis. Individualized dosing by a clinician is essential.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo dosage adjustment is necessary for hepatic impairment alone. However, if both hepatic and renal impairment are present, dose adjustment based on renal function is required.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 6 grams per day in adults with normal renal function.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of cefeprime 500mg injection

✅ Common Side Effects

Injection site reactions (pain, inflammation) (Common (1-10%))
Apply a cold compress to the site. Report persistent pain to your doctor.
Diarrhea (Common (1-10%))
Stay hydrated. If diarrhea is severe or bloody, contact your doctor immediately.
Nausea and vomiting (Common (1-10%))
Take small sips of clear fluids. Inform your doctor if vomiting persists.
Rash (Common (1-10%))
Report any rash to your doctor. If it spreads or is accompanied by other symptoms, seek immediate care.
Headache (Common (1-10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. Consult your doctor if headache is severe or persistent.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Anaphylaxis (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or a severe rash.
Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Contact your doctor if you develop severe, persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, or fever. Do not take anti-diarrheal medications without medical advice.
Seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience seizures, confusion, or muscle twitching, especially if you have kidney problems.
Blood disorders (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia) (Rare (<0.1%))
Report any unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of infection to your doctor. Regular blood tests may be needed.
Interstitial nephritis (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical attention if you notice decreased urine output, swelling, or fatigue. Kidney function should be monitored.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Seek emergency care if you develop a painful rash, blisters, or peeling skin.
Toxic epidermal necrolysis
Seek emergency care if you experience severe skin peeling, sores in the mouth, or fever.
Encephalopathy
Report confusion, hallucinations, or decreased consciousness to your doctor immediately.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Gentamicin Major
Furosemide Major
Warfarin Major
Probenecid Moderate
Chloramphenicol Moderate
Oral contraceptives Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Aminoglycosides (e.g., gentamicin, tobramycin)
  • Loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide)
  • Warfarin

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Probenecid
  • Chloramphenicol

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach upset and dizziness. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while receiving this medicine and until treatment is completed.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known severe hypersensitivity to cefepime, other cephalosporins, or any component of the formulation","Previous anaphylactic reaction to penicillins or other beta-lactam antibiotics"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, can occur. Discontinue immediately if a reaction occurs.","Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea may occur. Use caution in patients with a history of colitis.","Seizures have been reported, especially in patients with renal impairment. Adjust dose in renal impairment.","Prolonged use may result in overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi.","Use with caution in patients with a history of seizure disorder.","Monitor renal function closely when used with other nephrotoxic drugs."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Cefepime is excreted in human milk in low concentrations. Caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose can cause severe neurological symptoms, including seizures and encephalopathy. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Cefepime can be removed by hemodialysis. In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention.

⏰ Missed Dose

Since this medicine is administered by a healthcare professional, missed doses are unlikely. If you miss a scheduled dose, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Do not attempt to self-administer an extra dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine should only be administered by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. Before receiving this medicine, inform your doctor if you are allergic to cephalosporins, penicillins, or other beta-lactam antibiotics. Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially kidney disease, colitis, or a history of seizures. This medicine may interact with other medications, so provide a complete list of all drugs you are taking. Do not breastfeed while receiving this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical help immediately. Do not self-administer this injection.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, which can increase the risk of side effects. Dose adjustment based on renal function is essential. Monitor for neurological symptoms such as confusion or seizures.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor before receiving this medicine. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be used to treat or prevent surgical site infections. Follow your surgeon's instructions regarding wound care and follow-up.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are receiving this medicine. It may be used for prophylaxis in dental procedures for patients at risk of infective endocarditis, but this is not a standard indication.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated to help your kidneys flush out the medicine.
🥗
Get plenty of rest to support your recovery from infection.
😴
Eat a balanced diet to boost your immune system.
💧
Practice good hand hygiene to prevent the spread of infection.
🧘
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
🌞
Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise while you are recovering from a severe infection. Consult your doctor before resuming your regular exercise routine.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt to maintain gut health.
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Avoid alcohol during treatment.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

You may need to take time off work or school while receiving this medicine, especially if you are hospitalized. Fatigue and dizziness may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you feel fully recovered.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better. Stopping early can lead to recurrence of infection and antibiotic resistance.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to antibiotic resistance and superinfections. Prolonged therapy requires monitoring of kidney function, blood counts, and liver enzymes. Use only for the prescribed duration.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Other antibiotics

Depending on the infection and susceptibility, other antibiotics like ceftriaxone, piperacillin-tazobactam, or meropenem may be used.

Evidence: Well-established
Supportive care

Rest, hydration, and fever control are important adjuncts to antibiotic therapy.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no specific vaccine interactions with this medicine. However, ensure you are up to date with recommended vaccinations to prevent infections.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (20-25°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

This medicine is administered in a healthcare setting, so travel is not typically applicable. If you are traveling and need to continue treatment, ensure you carry the original packaging and a copy of your prescription. Check with your doctor about storage and administration during travel. Customs may require documentation for injectable medications.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 65-year-old man with hospital-acquired pneumonia
He was started on this medicine intravenously. His fever subsided within 48 hours, and his breathing improved gradually. He completed a 10-day course and recovered fully. His kidney function was monitored closely due to his age.
💡 Lesson: This medicine is effective for severe pneumonia when administered promptly and with appropriate monitoring.
👤 A 45-year-old woman with febrile neutropenia after chemotherapy
She developed a fever with a low white blood cell count. This medicine was started as empiric therapy. Her fever resolved within 3 days, and her blood counts improved. She completed the course without major side effects.
💡 Lesson: This medicine is a reliable choice for empiric treatment of febrile neutropenia in cancer patients.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts working immediately after administration, but you may not feel better for 24-48 hours. Complete the full course as prescribed.

Q: Can I take this medicine at home?

A: No, this medicine is given intravenously in a hospital or clinic under medical supervision.

Q: What if I am allergic to penicillin?

A: Inform your doctor about your allergy. This medicine may not be suitable for you, and an alternative may be prescribed.

Q: Is this medicine safe for my baby?

A: This medicine is not recommended for children unless specifically prescribed by a pediatrician. Consult your child's doctor.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine if I am allergic to penicillin?
  • How long will I need to stay in the hospital?
  • Will this medicine affect my kidney function?
  • Can I breastfeed while on this medicine?
  • What should I do if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while receiving this medicine?

🔄 Substitutes for cefeprime 500mg injection

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure viral infections like the flu.
    Fact: This medicine is an antibiotic and is only effective against bacterial infections. It does not treat viral infections.
  • Myth: You can stop this medicine as soon as you feel better.
    Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed by your doctor to prevent recurrence and antibiotic resistance.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
    Fact: This medicine is not safe for individuals with a known allergy to cephalosporins or penicillins. Always inform your doctor about your allergies.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Cefepime 500mg injection (various manufacturers)

Brand Alternatives

  • Maxipime
  • Cefepime injection

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Cefepime","class":"Fourth-generation cephalosporin","route":"Intravenous","spectrum":"Broad-spectrum, including Pseudomonas","typical_dose":"1-2 g every 8-12 hours"},{"medicine":"Ceftriaxone","class":"Third-generation cephalosporin","route":"Intravenous or intramuscular","spectrum":"Broad-spectrum, but less active against Pseudomonas","typical_dose":"1-2 g every 24 hours"},{"medicine":"Ceftazidime","class":"Third-generation cephalosporin","route":"Intravenous","spectrum":"Active against Pseudomonas, less active against gram-positive","typical_dose":"1-2 g every 8 hours"}]

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