Cefixime is a third generation cephalosporin that inhibits the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall (a mechanism similar to that caused by penicillins).

 

What is Cefixime?

Cefixime can be used to treat different types of infections:

  • Middle ear infections
  • Sinus infections
  • Throat infections
  • Infections that cause sudden worsening of previous bronchitis
  • Severe lung infections acquired outside the hospital
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Genital infections.

It is active ingredient against Gram-negative bacteria (Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Enterobacteriaceae) and streptococcus, while it is ineffective in treating Bacteroides fragilis and Enterobacteriaceae.

 

How should Cefixime be taken?

Cefixime can be taken orally and it can be administered in a single dose daily in the form of tablets. It can be taken with water before, during or after a meal, preferably always at the same hour of the day.

The duration of treatment varies depending on the type and severity of the infection. The usual duration of treatment is 7 days. If your doctor recommends it, the duration of treatment can be extended to up to 14 days.

 

Side effects associated with Cefixime

The possible side effects that may result from the use of Cefixime are different.

 

Common side effects include:

  • Diarrhea
  • Loose stools

 

Uncommon side effects include:

  • Nausea and / or vomiting
  • Stomach pain
  • Indigestion
  • Headaches
  • Rashes
  • Temporary anomalies in the results of liver function tests

 

Rare side effects include:

  • Dizziness
  • Fever

 

After prolonged use, it may result in new bacterial or fungal infections, loss of appetite, flatulence, inflammation of the mouth and / or other internal surfaces as well as temporary increase in the blood urea level.

 

Very rare side effects include:

  • Reduction in the number of different blood cells
  • Liver dysfunction (hepatitis, jaundice)
  • Renal impairment
  • Sense of hyperactivity

 

Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Cefixime

It is always good to inform your doctor or pharmacist:

  •  If you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription.
  • If you are pregnant (in which case it is not recommended to take Cefixime)
  • If you are breast-feeding (in which case your doctor will decide if it is appropriate to discontinue therapy or not)
  • If you are allergic or hypersensitive to Cefixime or any of its excipients
  • If you have previously suffered an immediate or serious allergic reaction caused by treatment with penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics (extreme caution should be taken in case of severe kidney problems)

 

Cefixime has no effect on your ability to drive or operate machinery.