Cefixime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. It contains the active ingredient Cefixime, which is effective against bacteria that cause infections in the ears, throat, tonsils, lungs, urinary tract, and skin. By inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, Cefixime stops bacterial growth and eliminates the infection. It is commonly prescribed for conditions such as otitis media, strep throat, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections.

Cefixime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. Doctors prescribe it for infections caused by susceptible bacteria requiring effective antibacterial therapy.​

Cefixime binds to penicillin-binding proteins in bacterial cell walls, interfering with synthesis during growth and division. This creates weak spots, causing bacteria to burst and die (bactericidal action).​

Commonly recommended for respiratory infections like bronchitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis, otitis media, urinary tract infections, gonorrhea, and skin infections caused by Streptococcus, Haemophilus influenzae, E. coli, when confirmed by culture.​

Taken once or twice daily for 5-14 days. Can be with or without food; complete the full course even if symptoms improve early to prevent resistance.

By specifically targeting bacterial cell walls, Cefixime controls infections, supports recovery, and reduces complications. Take exactly as prescribed; never stop early without medical advice.

Cefixime is indicated for the treatment of bacterial infections in adults and children, including:

Respiratory Tract Infections:

Such as tonsillitis, pharyngitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, and otitis media.​

Urinary Tract Infections:

Including uncomplicated cystitis and acute exacerbations.

Gonorrhea:

Effective against uncomplicated cervical/urethral gonococcal infections.

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections:

Treats cellulitis, wound infections caused by susceptible bacteria.

Otitis Media:

Acute middle ear infections, especially in children, when amoxicillin fails.​

Broad Spectrum Coverage:

Effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Streptococcus, Haemophilus influenzae, E. coli, and gonorrhoea-causing Neisseria.​

Once/Twice Daily Dosing:

A Convenient schedule improves adherence compared to frequent dosing of antibiotics.​

Good Tissue Penetration:

Reaches high levels in respiratory secretions, urine, and middle ear fluid for effective infection control.​

Child-Friendly:

Widely used in pediatric infections with an established safety profile.​

Bactericidal Action:

Kills bacteria directly rather than just stopping growth, leading to faster symptom resolution.

Like all medicines, Cefixime may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and improve as the body adjusts to the medication.

Common side effects:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhoea or loose stools
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Headache

Less common side effects:

• Rash or itching
• Yeast infections
• Mild allergic reactions

Rare but serious side effects (seek medical attention immediately):

• Severe diarrhoea (possibly C. difficile infection)
• Severe allergic reactions (swelling, breathing difficulty, hives)
• Liver problems (yellow skin/eyes)
• Severe skin reactions (blistering, peeling)

If you experience any unusual or persistent symptoms while taking Cefixime, contact your doctor promptly. Always take the medicine exactly as prescribed to reduce the risk of side effects.

• Administration: Take once or twice daily as prescribed, ideally at the same time each day.
• With Food: Can be taken with or without food. Take with food if stomach upset occurs.
• Swallow Whole: Take with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew if using extended-release forms.
• Consistency: Complete the full course even if feeling better early. Stopping prematurely can cause resistant infections.

Cefixime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that works by attacking bacterial cell walls to kill infection-causing bacteria.

It does this by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) on bacteria. These proteins are essential for building the bacterial cell wall during growth and division. Cefixime's beta-lactam ring blocks the final cross-linking step of peptidoglycan synthesis, creating weak spots in the cell wall. As bacteria try to grow, the weakened wall bursts, killing the bacteria.

This mechanism effectively treats infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria (like Streptococcus) and Gram-negative bacteria (like E. coli, Haemophilus influenzae), particularly respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, ear infections, and gonorrhea.

Because Cefixime targets bacterial cell walls specifically (which human cells lack), it fights infection without harming healthy cells, making it suitable for a wide range of susceptible bacterial infections.

• Complete Full Course: Finish all prescribed doses even if feeling better early. Stopping prematurely allows bacteria to survive and develop resistance.
• Consistent Timing: Take at the same time daily to maintain steady blood levels for effective infection control.
• Hydration is Important: Drink plenty of water to support kidney function and prevent crystal formation in urine.
• Allergy Alert: Stop immediately if rash, swelling, breathing difficulty, or severe diarrhoea occurs. Seek urgent medical care.
• Probiotics Helpful: Consider yoghurt or probiotic supplements during/after the course to restore healthy gut bacteria and prevent diarrhoea.

Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Keep container tightly closed and out of children's reach. Discard unused portion after course completion.

No significant food interactions. Can be taken with or without meals.

• Probenecid: Increases Cefixime blood levels; dose adjustment may be needed.​
• Carbamazepine/Phenytoin: May reduce Cefixime effectiveness.​
• Live Vaccines (Typhoid/Oral Cholera): Antibiotics may reduce vaccine effectiveness; space 1-2 weeks apart.​
• Antacids: Slight reduction in absorption; take 2 hours apart.

• Penicillin Allergy: Cross-reactivity risk in patients with penicillin allergy; use alternative antibiotics.​
• Kidney Disease: Dose adjustment required; monitor kidney function during treatment.​
• Colitis/C. difficile History: Risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea recurrence.​
• Seizure Disorders: Rare risk of seizures in predisposed patients.​

• Adults: 200-400 mg once or twice daily.
• Children: 8 mg/kg/day, divided doses.
• Duration 5-14 days based on infection type and severity.​

Symptoms include severe nausea, vomiting, and seizures. Action Required: Seek emergency medical care immediately.

Take as soon as remembered. If near the next dose, skip the missed one. Never double-dose to compensate.