Dose and Dosage:
- The typical dose of cefixime for adults and children over six months old is usually 400 mg once daily or divided into two doses of 200 mg every 12 hours.
- Dosage may vary depending on the severity of the infection, patient age, weight, and renal function.
- Pediatric dosing is weight-based and may range from 8 mg/kg/day to 12 mg/kg/day divided into two doses.
Frequency:
- Cefixime is usually taken once daily for most infections. In some cases, it may be divided into two doses taken every 12 hours.
Route of Administration (ROA):
- Cefixime is available in oral tablet or suspension forms and is administered via the oral route.
Mechanism of Action (MOA):
- Cefixime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial cell death.
Pharmacokinetics (PK):
- Cefixime is well absorbed orally, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 2 to 6 hours after administration.
- It is partially metabolized in the liver and eliminated primarily via renal excretion.
Pharmacodynamics (PD):
- Cefixime exhibits bactericidal activity against susceptible bacteria by disrupting cell wall synthesis, leading to cell lysis and death.
Pathophysiology:
- Cefixime is effective against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including strains that produce beta-lactamases.
Indications:
- Cefixime is indicated for the treatment of various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, otitis media, gonorrhea, and certain types of skin infections.
Contraindications:
- Contraindications include known allergy to cephalosporin antibiotics or penicillins.
- Caution should be exercised in patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Drug Interactions:
- Cefixime may interact with certain medications, including probenecid, which can increase cefixime levels in the body by decreasing renal excretion.
- Concurrent use of cefixime with other nephrotoxic drugs may increase the risk of kidney damage.
Monitoring and Laboratory Tests:
- Monitoring for therapeutic efficacy and adverse effects is recommended during treatment with cefixime.
- Laboratory tests such as renal function tests may be performed periodically to assess kidney function, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
Why is this medication prescribed? Cefixime is prescribed to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, otitis media, gonorrhea, and certain types of skin infections.
How should this medicine be used? Cefixime is usually taken orally once daily or divided into two doses every 12 hours, depending on the severity of the infection. The dosage may vary based on age, weight, renal function, and the type of infection being treated. It’s essential to follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.
Other uses for this medicine Cefixime may also be prescribed for other bacterial infections not listed here. It’s crucial to use this medication only for the condition for which it was prescribed and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
What special precautions should I follow?
- Inform your doctor about any allergies you have, especially to cephalosporin antibiotics or penicillins.
- Notify your doctor of any medical conditions you have, especially kidney problems or gastrointestinal diseases.
- Use caution if you have a history of severe allergic reactions to other beta-lactam antibiotics.
- Take the medication exactly as prescribed, even if you start to feel better, to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.
What special dietary instructions should I follow? There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with cefixime use. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated while taking antibiotics to support the body’s healing process.
What should I do if I forget a dose? If you miss a dose of cefixime, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
What side effects can this medication cause? Common side effects of cefixime may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, and rash. Contact your doctor if these side effects persist or worsen. Rare but severe side effects may include severe allergic reactions, diarrhea with blood or mucus, and liver problems.
What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication? Store cefixime tablets or suspension at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets. Dispose of any unused or expired medication properly, following local regulations or guidelines.
In case of emergency/overdose If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or loss of consciousness, seek emergency medical attention immediately. If possible, bring the medication container or label to assist healthcare providers in providing appropriate treatment.