Cefixime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is effective against infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, ears, throat, and certain sexually transmitted diseases.
Available in various forms, including Cefixime oral suspension IP and tablets, this antibiotic is known for its broad-spectrum antibacterial activity.
What is Cefixime?
Cefixime is used to treat infections that are caused by bacteria. There are various bacterial infections like
Cefixime is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It helps in killing the bacteria present in our body. These antibiotics will not work for colds, flu and other viral infections.
What is Cefixime Oral Suspension IP?
Cefixime oral suspension IP is a liquid form of the antibiotic used primarily for children or adults who have difficulty swallowing tablets. It is ideal for treating bacterial infections such as ear infections, throat infections, and respiratory tract infections in pediatric patients. This formulation ensures precise dosing based on body weight and is often flavored to improve compliance in children.
Cefixime oral suspension IP is typically available in strengths like 100 mg/5 mL and should be properly shaken before administration. After reconstitution, the suspension must be stored correctly and discarded after 14 days.
What are the Uses of Cefixime?
Cefixime is prescribed for treating various bacterial infections due to its broad spectrum of activity against many pathogens. This antibiotic specifically targets bacterial cell walls, preventing their formation and ultimately killing the bacteria.
Conditions Cefixime Treats
Cefixime is effective in treating the following bacterial infections:
Respiratory tract infections including bronchitis and pneumonia
Ear infections (otitis media)
Throat infections, tonsillitis, and pharyngitis
Urinary tract infections
Gonorrhea (sexually transmitted infection)
Typhoid fever (off-label use)
States that Cefixime is also sometimes used to treat sinus infections in penicillin-allergic patients, shigellosis, salmonella infections, and other bacterial conditions.
Secondary Uses of Cefixime
Besides its primary uses, Cefixime may be prescribed for:
Treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations
Skin and soft tissue infections
Lyme disease in certain cases
Prevention of bacterial infections in high-risk patients
How Does Cefixime Work?
Cefixime works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, which is crucial for bacterial survival. Specifically, it binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in the bacterial cell membrane, disrupting the final step in cell wall formation.
This mechanism prevents bacteria from creating their protective cell walls, leading to structural weakness and eventual cell death.
Cefixime is stable against many beta-lactamase enzymes, which are bacterial defense mechanisms that typically break down certain antibiotics.
The medication is effective against various bacteria including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Proteus mirabilis.
Cefixime Dosage
The dosage of Cefixime varies depending on the type of infection, patient age, weight, and kidney function.
Always follow your doctor's prescription and complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication.
Typical Dosage Instructions
For Adults and Children over 12 years (weighing more than 50 kg):
Standard dose: 400 mg once daily or 200 mg twice daily (every 12 hours)
For uncomplicated gonorrhea: A single 400 mg dose
Treatment duration typically ranges from 7-14 days, depending on the infection
For Children (6 months to 12 years, weighing 45 kg or less):
8 mg/kg/day as a single dose or divided into two 4 mg/kg doses every 12 hours
Dosage is calculated based on body weight
The type and severity of infection determines duration
The most common formulation used in children is Cefixime oral suspension IP, which allows for weight-based dosing and easy administration.
Skin infections
For adults, the typical Cefixime dosage is 500 mg daily for 3 days. Alternatively, a doctor may prescribe a single 500mg dose on the first day and 250 mg doses for the following two days.
Before using Cefixime syrup, ensure it is thoroughly shaken and then mixed with water for dissolution.
Chew Cefixime chewable tablets thoroughly before swallowing.
Recommends that Cefixime be administered for at least 10 days in the treatment of Streptococcus pyogenes infections.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose of Cefixime, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What Happens if an Overdose?
An overdose of Cefixime may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, and diarrhea. If you suspect an overdose, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Like all medications, Cefixime can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. It's important to be aware of both common and rare side effects.
Contact your doctor promptly if you experience any serious symptoms, and avoid taking Cefixime tablets if you develop adverse reactions. This medication has been prescribed after carefully weighing its benefits against potential side effects. However, seek immediate medical attention if you encounter severe reactions. For persistent side effects or allergy-related concerns, consult our General Medicine Specialists for appropriate evaluation and treatment guidance.
Precautions and Warnings
Before taking Cefixime, inform your healthcare provider about all medical conditions, allergies, and medications you are taking.
Who Should Avoid This Medicine
Cefixime should be avoided by people with:
Known allergy to cefixime or other cephalosporin antibiotics
Previous severe allergic reaction to penicillin (cross-sensitivity may occur)
History of cephalosporin-associated hemolytic anemia
Conditions Where Caution is Needed
Kidney disease or impaired renal function
Liver disease
History of gastrointestinal disease, especially colitis
notes that dosage adjustments are necessary for patients with severe renal insufficiency.
Age Restrictions for Using Cefixime
Cefixime's safety and efficacy have not been established in infants under 6 months of age. For children 6 months to 12 years, dosing is weight-based. Elderly patients can generally take the same doses as other adults; however, renal function should be closely monitored.
Alcohol or Food Interactions
There are no specific food restrictions with Cefixime, and it can be taken with or without food. If Cefixime causes stomach upset, taking it with food may help reduce this side effect. Alcohol consumption should be avoided during treatment as it may increase the risk of side effects and reduce the effectiveness of the medication.
Possible Interactions with Other Medications
Cefixime may interact with other medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
Drug Interactions to Be Aware Of:
Aminoglycoside antibiotics (such as gentamicin, tobramycin): May increase the risk of kidney damage
Anticoagulants (blood thinners): May increase the risk of bleeding
Probenecid: May increase cefixime levels in the blood
Live vaccines (such as typhoid vaccine): Antibiotics may decrease the effectiveness of certain live vaccines
Immune checkpoint inhibitors: May interfere with their therapeutic effects
Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
Proper storage of Cefixime ensures its effectiveness and safety throughout its shelf life.
Recommended Storage Temperature
Tablets, capsules, and chewable tablets: Store at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C)
Oral suspension: Cefixime oral suspension IP should be stored either at room temperature or refrigerated after reconstitution, based on the label instructions. Always shake well before use and discard unused portions after 14 days.
Keep all forms away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light
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What Happens If Cefixime Is Not Stored Properly?
Improper storage may lead to degradation of the medication, reducing its effectiveness or potentially causing harmful byproducts. Signs of degradation may include changes in color, odor, or consistency of the medication.
For oral suspension, after reconstitution, discard any unused portion after 14 days, even if stored properly.
Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional.
Cefixime vs Cefpodoxime
Cefixime
Cefpodoxime
Cefixime is used for treating the middle ears, tonsillitis, throat infections and urinary tract.
Cefpodoxime is used to treat throat infections, sinusitis and pneumonia.
Side effects are Diarrhea, nausea, fever, joint pain, arthritis and headaches.
Side effects are skin rash, allergic reactions, vaginitis and muscle pain.
Dosage for Cefixime is 400mg once daily.
Dosage for Cefpodoxime is 200mg every 12 hours for 14 days.
Yes, Cefixime is considered a strong antibiotic because it is effective against a wide variety of bacteria, making it useful for treating various bacterial infections.
Common side effects of Cefixime include vomiting, nausea, breathlessness, headache, gas, dizziness, stomach pain, and sore throat. Always consult your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
Combining Amoxicillin and Cefixime may lead to increased side effects. It’s important to consult your doctor before taking these antibiotics together.
Cefixime may be more effective than Ciprofloxacin for certain bacterial infections. The choice between the two depends on the specific type of infection and patient needs. Consult your doctor for the best option.
Cefixime can be used in patients with impaired kidney function, but dosage adjustments may be necessary. Always consult your doctor for proper treatment.
No, Cefixime and Ciprofloxacin are different antibiotics. While both are used to treat bacterial infections, their efficacy and spectrum of activity differ. Your doctor can advise which is more suitable for your condition.
Cefixime syrup is used to treat bacterial infections in children, such as ear infections, throat infections, and UTIs. It's easy to administer and usually prescribed based on the child’s weight.
Cefixime and amoxicillin are both effective antibiotics, but their usage depends on the type of infection. Cefixime is often prescribed twice daily, while amoxicillin may be taken three times a day. Consult your doctor to determine which is best for your condition.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
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