Cefixime: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo
Cefixime
Rx Only
Generic NameCefixime
Therapeutic ClassThird-Generation Cephalosporin Antibiotic
Common Dose200–400 mg once or twice daily
Max / 24h400 mg
PregnancyCategory B
Indications ▼
Urinary tract infections (cystitis, pyelonephritis)
Respiratory tract infections (bronchitis, pneumonia)
Otitis media and pharyngitis/tonsillitis
Gonorrhea (uncomplicated)
Skin and soft tissue infections
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to cell lysis.
Pharmacokinetics: Oral absorption ~40–50%; peak plasma 2–6 hr; widely distributed in body fluids; partially metabolized in liver; excreted mainly in urine; half-life ~3–4 hr.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Patient Category | Recommended Dose | Max / 24h |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 400 mg once daily or 200 mg every 12 h | 400 mg |
| Elderly | Same as adults; adjust for renal impairment | 400 mg |
| Children (≥6 months) | 8 mg/kg/day orally in 1–2 divided doses | 400 mg |
Side Effects ▼
Common: Diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, headache
Occasional: Rash, urticaria, dizziness
Rare: Hypersensitivity reactions, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, hepatotoxicity
Contraindications ▼
Hypersensitivity to cefixime, cephalosporins, or penicillin
History of severe allergic reactions to beta-lactams
Drug Interaction ▼
Antacids containing Al/Mg: reduce absorption
Probenecid: may increase plasma concentration of cefixime
Live bacterial vaccines: concurrent use may reduce efficacy
Pregnancy & Lactation ▼
Generally considered safe (Category B)
Excreted in breast milk in low amounts; monitor infant for diarrhea or rash
Clinical / Research Summary ▼
Effectiveness: Active against gram-negative bacteria including E. coli, Klebsiella, and Proteus species, as well as some gram-positive bacteria.
Clinical Outcomes: Rapid symptom relief in urinary and respiratory infections; reduces duration of illness.
Pharmacokinetic Advantage: Oral and IV formulations allow flexible administration; long enough half-life for once or twice daily dosing.
Safety Profile: Well tolerated; gastrointestinal disturbances are most common adverse effects.
Current Research: Studies on resistance patterns, combination therapy in severe infections, and pharmacodynamics in pediatrics and elderly populations.
Patient Counseling Points ▼
Take at the same time daily; can be taken with or without water, with or without food.
Complete full course even if symptoms improve.
Maintain hydration to prevent kidney complications.
Avoid concurrent antacids or inform doctor.
Report allergic reactions, severe diarrhea, or unusual symptoms immediately.
Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if advised by physician.
Storage & Handling ▼
Store at 20–25°C; protect from moisture & light
Keep out of reach of children
Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼
Cef-3®
Suprax
Cefspan
Suprax
Cefspan
Medical Disclaimer: This clinical summary is for informational purposes only. Always follow guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for dosage, interactions, and use.
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