Composition of Taxim O (Cefmenoxime)
Taxim O (cefmenoxime) is an aminothiazolyl cephalosporin, classified as a third-generation cephalosporin with a broad spectrum of activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. 1
Chemical Structure and Components
- Cefmenoxime contains an N-methyltetrazole side chain at the 3-position of the cephalosporin nucleus, similar to other cephalosporins like latamoxef, cefoperazone, and cefamandole 1
- It shares the basic beta-lactam ring structure common to all cephalosporins, which is a key component for its antimicrobial activity 2
- The chemical structure includes R1 and R2 side chains that determine its spectrum of activity and potential cross-reactivity with other beta-lactam antibiotics 2
Pharmacological Properties
- Cefmenoxime is administered parenterally (intravenously or intramuscularly) as it is not available in oral formulation 1, 3
- After intramuscular injection of 250 mg, it reaches peak serum concentrations of approximately 5.9 μg/ml within 30 minutes 4
- The half-life in serum ranges from 0.94 to 1.41 hours depending on the route of administration 4
- Urinary recovery is approximately 60-70% within 6 hours of administration 4
- Higher doses (2g every 4-6 hours) can achieve peak serum levels of 84-106 μg/ml 3
Antimicrobial Spectrum
- Cefmenoxime is active against most common Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens 1, 3
- It is a potent inhibitor of Enterobacteriaceae, including beta-lactamase-producing strains 1
- Its antimicrobial activity is most similar to cefotaxime and ceftizoxime among third-generation cephalosporins 1, 5
- It demonstrates resistance to hydrolysis by beta-lactamases, enhancing its effectiveness against resistant organisms 1
Clinical Applications
- Cefmenoxime has shown efficacy in treating various infections including:
- It has demonstrated effectiveness against organisms resistant to conventional cephalosporin antibiotics, such as Serratia 4
Safety Profile
- Generally well-tolerated with infrequent adverse effects 1, 3
- Potential side effects include:
- Despite containing an N-methyltetrazole side chain, hypoprothrombinaemic bleeding and disulfiram-like reactions have been reported very rarely 1, 3
Important Considerations
- Cefmenoxime may have cross-reactivity with other beta-lactam antibiotics in patients with allergies 2
- For patients with a history of anaphylaxis to another cephalosporin, skin testing should be considered before administering cefmenoxime if the R1 side chains are different 2
- Dosage adjustments may be necessary in patients with renal impairment 3