Cefixime is an antibiotic medication used to treat various bacterial infections in the body. It belongs to a class of antibiotics known as cephalosporins, which are effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria. Cefixime is prescribed by doctors and is not effective against viral infections, such as the common cold or flu.
Conditions Cefixime Treats
Cefixime is commonly prescribed for a range of bacterial infections. It effectively treats ear infections, known as otitis media, particularly those caused by Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Streptococcus pyogenes. This antibiotic also addresses throat infections like pharyngitis and tonsillitis, primarily when Streptococcus pyogenes is the causative agent.
It is also used for certain respiratory tract infections, including acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae. Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis are another common target for cefixime. Furthermore, cefixime is effective against uncomplicated gonorrhea (cervical/urethral) caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
How Cefixime Works
Cefixime functions by interfering with the formation of the bacterial cell wall. Bacteria possess a cell wall made of a rigid structure called peptidoglycan, which provides essential strength and protection. The synthesis of this peptidoglycan involves specific enzymes known as penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs).
Cefixime, a beta-lactam antibiotic, binds to these PBPs, thereby inhibiting their activity. This inhibition prevents the bacteria from properly building and maintaining their cell walls, leading to weakened cell walls and ultimately bacterial cell death.
Correct Usage and Administration
Cefixime is available in various forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, capsules, and oral suspension (liquid). The specific dosage and form will be determined by a healthcare professional, as different products may be absorbed differently by the body. Adults typically take 400 milligrams once daily or 200 milligrams every 12 hours, while children aged 6 months to 12 years usually receive 8 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day, either as a single dose or divided into two doses.
This medication can be taken with or without food, though food may slightly delay absorption of the capsule form. Chewable tablets should be thoroughly chewed before swallowing, and the oral suspension should be shaken well before each use. It is important to use a proper measuring device, such as a dosing syringe or medicine cup, for liquid forms to ensure accuracy.
Completing the entire prescribed course of cefixime is important, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. Stopping treatment early can lead to the infection not being fully cleared and may increase the risk of bacteria developing resistance to antibiotics. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, in which case the missed dose should be skipped.
Potential Side Effects
Cefixime can cause various side effects, with gastrointestinal issues being among the most common. These often include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, and loose stools. Some individuals may also experience headaches or gas.
While less frequent, more serious side effects can occur. These include severe allergic reactions, which may manifest as a rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing. Another serious concern is Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), which can be severe and watery or bloody, sometimes appearing weeks or months after treatment ends. Other rare but serious side effects can involve liver or kidney problems, characterized by symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or changes in urination.
Important Warnings
Before taking cefixime, it is important to inform your doctor about any allergies, especially to penicillin or other cephalosporin antibiotics, as allergic reactions can be severe. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, such as kidney disease or a history of gastrointestinal issues like colitis, should also discuss these with their healthcare provider, as dosage adjustments or closer monitoring may be necessary.
Cefixime can interact with other medications. For example, it may increase the levels of carbamazepine, a drug used for seizures, and can enhance the effects of blood thinners like warfarin, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding. It is also known to interfere with the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines, such as those for typhoid and cholera, and may decrease the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. Patients should always provide a complete list of all prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, and herbal products they are taking to their doctor or pharmacist.
For pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, cefixime should be used only if clearly needed and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as its effects on pregnancy and presence in breast milk are not fully established. Pediatric patients also require careful dosing based on body weight. This information provides a general overview, and individualized medical advice from a healthcare professional is always necessary.