cefixime at a glance
Medicine class
Third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic
Main licensed uses
Selected susceptible respiratory and urinary tract infections
How it is taken
By mouth; swallow the tablet whole with water
Food
May be taken with or without food
What is cefixime used for?
The selected UK tablet is licensed for acute infections caused by susceptible organisms, including:
Upper respiratory tract infections, including otitis media and selected infections where resistance or treatment failure is a particular concern
Lower respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis
Urinary tract infections, including cystitis, cystourethritis and uncomplicated pyelonephritis
How does cefixime work?
Cefixime binds bacterial penicillin-binding proteins and disrupts construction of the protective cell wall. Susceptible bacteria then become unstable and die. Resistance mechanisms can prevent this effect.
cefixime preparations and strengths
Tablet
Route: Oral
Strengths: 200 mg
How to take cefixime
Follow the dispensing label. Swallow the tablet whole with water. It may be taken with or without food.
cefixime side effects
Common or expected effects
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal pain, indigestion or wind
- Headache or dizziness
- Itching around the genital or vaginal area
Get urgent medical advice
- Breathing or swallowing difficulty, facial or throat swelling, or other signs of anaphylaxis
- Blistering, peeling or widespread rash, mucosal sores, fever or swollen lymph nodes
- Severe or persistent watery diarrhoea, particularly with fever or weakness
- Fits, confusion, reduced consciousness or abnormal movements
- Unusual bruising, bleeding, marked pallor or jaundice
- Blood in the urine or a significant reduction in kidney function
cefixime in pregnancy
Most studies of cephalosporins in pregnancy have not shown harm to the baby. Cefixime-specific human evidence is limited, and the UK product information advises use only when the prescriber considers it essential.
cefixime while breastfeeding
Human data on cefixime in breast milk are unavailable. The UK product information advises use during nursing only when considered essential. Ask the prescriber or pharmacist to assess the need for cefixime and the baby's circumstances, especially if the baby is premature or unwell.
cefixime interactions
Tell the prescriber and pharmacist about all medicines and supplements. A clinically important documented interaction is:
Coumarin anticoagulants, including warfarin
Cefixime may increase the anticoagulant effect and prolong clotting time, with or without bleeding; closer monitoring may be required.
Common questions about cefixime
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Does cefixime treat colds or flu?
No. Cefixime acts against susceptible bacteria and does not treat viral infections such as colds or flu.
Can cefixime be taken with food?
Yes. Food does not significantly change its absorption, so the tablet may be taken with or without food.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.