Description
Indications
When caused by sensitive strains of the listed bacteria, cefixime is recommended for the treatment of the following infections:
- Urinary tract infections caused by Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis are not complex.
- Haemophilus influenza, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Streptococcus pyogenes cause otitis media.
- Streptococcus pyogenes causes pharyngitis and tonsillitis.
- Streptococcus pneummoniae and Haemophilus influenza induce acute bronchitis and acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis.
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae causes uncomplicated gonorrhea (cervical/urethral).
Pharmacology
Cefixime is a semisynthetic third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic for oral use. At easily attainable plasma concentrations, it is bactericidal against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms. By interfering with the production of the bacterial cell wall, it kills bacteria. In the presence of the Beta-lactamase enzyme, it is extremely stable. As a result, many organisms resistant to penicillins and certain cephalosporins may be sensitive to Cefixime due to the presence of beta-lactamases. It is absorbed around 40% to 50% of the time, whether it is given with or without meals.
Dosage & Administration
The usual course of treatment is 7 days. This may be continued for up to 14 days depending on the severity of the infection.
Adult and children over 12 years: The recommended adult dose is 200-400 mg (1 to 2 capsules) daily, given either as a single dose or in two divided doses. For the treatment of uncomplicated cervical/urethral gonococcal infections, a single oral dose of Cefixime 400 mg is recommended.
Children (6 months or older): Usually 8 mg/kg/day given as a single dose or in two divided doses or may be given as follows:
- ½-1 year: 75 mg daily.
- 1-4 years: 100 mg daily.
- 5-10 years: 200 mg daily.
- 11-12 years: 300 mg daily
- In typhoid fever, the dosage should be 10 mg/kg/day for 14 days.
Children (under 6 months): The safety and efficacy of Cefixime have not been established in children aged less than 6 months.
Interaction
Carbamazepine: Taking these drugs together raises the carbamazepine level. Concurrent use of warfarin and other anticoagulants raises prothrombin time.
Contraindications
Cefixime is a semisynthetic third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic for oral use. At easily attainable plasma concentrations, it is bactericidal against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms. By interfering with the production of the bacterial cell wall, it kills bacteria. In the presence of the Beta-lactamase enzyme, it is extremely stable. As a result, many organisms resistant to penicillins and certain cephalosporins may be sensitive to Cefixime due to the presence of beta-lactamases. It is absorbed around 40% to 50% of the time, whether it is given with or without meals.
Side Effects
In general, the medication is well tolerated. Diarrhea and stool alterations are the most prevalent adverse effects, which are more often linked with larger dosages. Nausea, stomach discomfort, dyspepsia, vomiting, flatulence, headache, and dizziness are some of the other adverse effects. Rashes, pruritus, urticaria, drug fever, and arthralgia have all been recorded as allergic reactions. When the treatment was stopped, these responses typically faded.
Pregnancy & Lactation
However, no appropriate and well-controlled trials in pregnant women have been conducted. Because animal reproduction studies do not always anticipate a human response, this medication should only be taken during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. Cefixime is not known to be excreted in human milk. When Cefixime is given to a breastfeeding mother, care should be used.
Precautions & Warnings
Individuals having a history of gastrointestinal illness, particularly colitis, should be recommended with caution. Patients with severe renal impairment, as well as those on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis, should be administered the medicine with care. Only in severe renal failure (creatinine clearance 20 ml/min) should the dosage be adjusted; in such cases, a daily dose of 200 mg should not be exceeded.
Therapeutic Class
Third Generation Cephalosporins
Storage Conditions
Keep the temperature below 30°C and keep it away from light and moisture. Keep out of children’s reach.
