and so forth). It is supplied as a 250-mg capsule; quantities of 2.5 grams are available
to be reconstituted to 100 ml of oral suspension (125 mg/5 ml).
(4) Cefoxitin for injection (Mefoxin). The adult dose of cefoxitin is 1 to 2
grams every 6 to 8 hours. IM doses need to be injected well within a large muscle. It is
supplied in 1 gram, 2 gram, and 10 gram vials.
(5) Cefaclor (Ceclor). Cefaclor is commonly used to treat respiratory tract
infections and otitis media. The usual dose is 250 mg every eight hours. In more
severe infections, 500 mg every eight hours may be administered. It is supplied in 250
mg and 500 mg capsules and as powder for suspension 125 mg per 5 ml and 250 mg
per 5 ml. The suspension must be refrigerated after reconstitution.
(6) Ceftriaxone (Rocephin). Ceftriaxone can be administered IM or IV. The
adult dose is 1 to 2 gm once daily. A total daily dose of 4 gm should not be exceeded.
IM doses should be injected well within the body of a large muscle. Ceftriaxone is
supplied in 250 mg, 500 mg, 1 gram, 2 gram, and 10-gram vials.
5-21. ERYTHROMYCIN
Erythromycin (Erythrocin) is often used to treat clients who are hypersensitive to
penicillin. Its antibacterial activity is similar to that of penicillin. Erythromycin is effective
against gram-positive organisms, especially pneumococci, streptococci, staphylococci,
and corynebacteria. It is also effective against neisseriae, Haemophilus, and
Mycoplasma.
a. Indications.
(1) Upper and lower respiratory tract, skin, and soft-tissue infections due to
beta-hemolytic streptococcus.
(2) Short-term prophylaxis against bacterial endocarditis prior to dental
procedures in clients with a history of rheumatic fever or congenital heart disease and
who are allergic to penicillin.
(3)
Acute infections of the skin or soft tissue due to Staphylococcus aureus.
(4) Upper and lower respiratory tract infections due to Diplococcus
pneumoniae.
(5) Treatment of primary atypical pneumonia due to Mycoplasma
pneumoniae.
(6)
Treatment of primary syphilis in penicillin-allergic clients.
(7)
Treatment of gonorrhea in clients allergic to penicillin.
MD0913
5-23