Cefixime
Cefixime Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Cefixime is a brand name. Its generic name is Cefixime.
Introduction
Cefixime is an antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It belongs to the cephalosporin antibiotics group, and works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.
Uses
Cefixime is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory and urinary tract infections, skin infections, sexually transmitted diseases, and gonorrhea.
Mechanism of Action
Cefixime works by interfering with the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. This prevents the bacteria from forming the protective layer it needs to survive, and eventually causes the bacteria to die.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
Cefixime typically starts to work within 48 hours. Depending on the severity and type of infection, it can take up to 7 days or longer for the symptoms to fully resolve.
Absorption
Cefixime is absorbed in the small intestine and rapidly distributed throughout the body. Peak concentrations in the blood occur within 1-2 hours after taking a dose.
Route of Elimination
Cefixime is eliminated primarily in the urine, with only a small amount being eliminated in the feces.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of cefixime for adults is 100-200 mg every 12 hours, or 400 mg once daily. For pediatric patients, the dose range is 5-10 mg/kg/day, divided every 12 hours. For children younger than 5, the dose should not exceed 400 mg per day.
Administration
Cefixime should be taken with food for maximum absorption. It should be taken at the same time every day, and not skipped.
Side Effects
Common side effects of cefixime include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, dizziness, headache, stomach pain, and vaginitis. If any of these side effects are severe or persist, the patient should immediately seek medical attention.
Toxicity
Cefixime is considered to have a low toxicity profile, with no known overdose cases reported. It is important to carefully follow the dosage instructions to avoid potential side effects and drug interactions.
Precaution
Patients with certain allergies or medical conditions should take extra precaution when taking cefixime. Patients allergic to cephalosporin antibiotics, or with kidney or liver problems, should consult their doctor before taking cefixime.
Interactions
Cefixime may interact with certain medications, such as antacids or other antibiotics. It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all medications you're taking in order to reduce the risk of potential interactions.
Drug Interactions
Cefixime may interact with other medications, including antibiotics, antacids, antidepressants, and diuretics. These medications can decrease the absorption of cefixime, potentially lowering its effectiveness.
Food Interactions
Cefixime should be taken with food. Taking it on an empty stomach can decrease its absorption and potentially make it less effective.
Pregnancy Use
Cefixime is classified as a pregnancy category B drug, meaning that its safety for use during pregnancy has not yet been established. It should only be used during pregnancy if the benefit outweighs the potential risks.
Lactation Use
Cefixime is also classified as a lactation category B drug. The excretion of the drug into breast milk is unknown, and it should be used with caution in breastfeeding mothers.
Acute Overdose
An acute overdose of cefixime is unlikely to cause any serious side effects, but if an overdose is suspected, medical attention should be sought immediately.
Contraindication
Cefixime is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should also not be used in patients with severe kidney or liver disease.
Use Direction
Cefixime should be taken as directed by your doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than directed.
Storage Condition
Cefixime should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it in the original container and out of reach of children.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution for cefixime is 0.3 L/kg.
Half Life
The half life of cefixime is approximately 1.5 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of cefixime is 0.2 L/h/kg.
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Some Frequently Asked Questions About Cefixime
What is Cefixime?
Cefixime is an antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including upper respiratory, urinary tract, and ear infections. It is taken by mouth and is available in capsule and suspension form.
How long does it take for Cefixime to work?
The effects of Cefixime can typically be seen within 48 hours of taking the medication. However, it may take longer for the infection to fully clear up.
How often should I take Cefixime?
Cefixime should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Typically, you will take one dose by mouth once a day, or as directed by your doctor.
Is Cefixime safe to take while pregnant?
It is generally considered safe to take Cefixime while pregnant as it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking any medication while pregnant.
What are the side effects of Cefixime?
Common side effects of Cefixime include feeling dizzy or lightheaded, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor.
What should I avoid while taking Cefixime?
You should avoid alcohol and other medications with alcohol while taking Cefixime as they can increase the risk of side effects. Additionally, you should avoid taking other antibiotics while taking Cefixime as this can decrease the efficacy of the medication.
Can Cefixime be used to treat a UTI?
Yes, Cefixime is commonly used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs), as it is an effective antibiotic for various bacterial infections. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking any medication for a UTI.
Is Cefixime safe for children?
Although Cefixime is FDA approved for use in adults, the safety and efficacy of Cefixime in children has not been established. Therefore, it is important to speak to your doctor before giving Cefixime to a child.
Is Cefixime resistant to penicillin?
No, Cefixime is not resistant to penicillin. It is a type of cephalosporin antibiotic, which is similar to penicillin in its mode of action.
Can I take Cefixime with other medications?
Yes, you can take Cefixime with other medications, but it is important to inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking. Additionally, do not take Cefixime with any other antibiotics.
What if I miss a dose of Cefixime?
If you miss a dose of Cefixime, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled.
Can I take Cefixime while breastfeeding?
Yes, Cefixime is safe to take while breastfeeding. However, it is important to inform your doctor of any medications you are taking while breastfeeding, including any Over The Counter (OTC) medications.
Is Cefixime an antibiotic?
Yes, Cefixime is an antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections.
Can Cefixime be used to treat pneumonia?
Yes, Cefixime is effective for treating some cases of pneumonia. However, it is important to speak to your doctor to determine the most effective course of treatment.
What type of bacteria does Cefixime treat?
Cefixime is an effective antibiotic for treating a wide range of bacterial infections, including upper respiratory, urinary tract, and ear infections. It is effective against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.
Is Cefixime safe for dogs?
Cefixime is not typically used to treat infections in dogs due to the concurrent risks and side effects. It is important to speak to your veterinarian before giving your dog any medication.
Can I take Cefixime with milk?
Yes, it is safe to take Cefixime with milk. However, you should avoid taking it with calcium-fortified beverages as this can reduce the absorption of the medication.
How do I store Cefixime?
Cefixime should be stored at room temperature away from light and excessive heat. Once opened, the suspension should be refrigerated and used within 10 days.
What is the dosage of Cefixime?
The recommended dosage of Cefixime is 400-800mg taken by mouth once daily or as directed by your doctor. It is important to speak to your doctor to determine the correct dosage for your condition.
Is Cefixime a sulfa drug?
No, Cefixime is not a sulfa drug. Sulfa drugs are sulfonamide antibiotics which contain a sulfonamide group, while Cefixime is a cephalosporin antibiotic.
Can Cefixime be used to treat gonorrhea?
Yes, Cefixime is effective in treating gonorrhea. However, it is important to take the full course of the medication as prescribed by your doctor to ensure the infection is completely cleared.
What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Cefixime?
If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction to Cefixime such as difficulty breathing, rash, itching, or swelling, contact your doctor or seek medical help immediately.
Can I take Cefixime with food?
Yes, it is safe to take Cefixime with food or immediately after a meal. However, do not take it with calcium-fortified foods or beverages as this can reduce the absorption of the medication.
Can Cefixime be used to treat a sinus infection?
Yes, Cefixime is effective in treating a range of bacterial sinus infections. However, it is important to speak to your doctor to determine the most effective course of treatment.
Does Cefixime have any drug interactions?
Yes, Cefixime has been known to interact with certain medications and supplements, including methotrexate, probenecid, and antacids, so it is important to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking.
Does Cefixime cause diarrhea?
Yes, Cefixime can cause diarrhea as a side effect. If you experience any side effects, contact your doctor.
How long does Cefixime stay in your system?
Cefixime can remain in your system for up to 24 hours after you take it. Therefore, if you have missed a dose, it is important to take it as soon as possible.
What is the usual course of treatment for Cefixime?
The usual course of treatment for Cefixime is 7-10 days. It is important to take the full course of the medication as prescribed by your doctor for the infection to be cleared properly.
Is Cefixime a penicillin?
No, Cefixime is not a penicillin. It is a type of cephalosporin antibiotic, which is similar to penicillin in its mode of action.
Can I take Cefixime if I have a penicillin allergy?
Yes, you can take Cefixime if you have a penicillin allergy. Cefixime is a type of cephalosporin antibiotic which is not related to penicillin.