Cefixime – Complete Guide for Patients and Practitioners

When working with Cefixime, a third‑generation oral cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Also known as Suprax, it targets the bacterial cell wall to stop growth.

Cefixime is most often prescribed for respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections. The drug belongs to the broader class of antibiotics, medicines that kill or inhibit bacteria. Because it works by binding to penicillin‑binding proteins, it is especially effective against Gram‑negative organisms like Escherichia coli and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. In practical terms, this means a typical adult dose of 400 mg once daily can clear a mid‑range infection in 5‑7 days, provided the bacteria haven’t developed resistance.

The success of any antibiotic hinges on the type of bacterial infection, the disease caused by harmful bacteria being treated. For instance, cefixime performs well for uncomplicated gonorrhea but is less reliable for infections caused by resistant strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae. Understanding local resistance patterns helps clinicians decide whether cefixime is a safe bet or if a different agent is warranted.

Key Factors Shaping Cefixime Use

Three core attributes dictate how you should use cefixime: dosage form, side‑effect profile, and the risk of resistance. The drug comes in tablets (200 mg) and oral suspension (100 mg/5 ml). Pediatric dosing is weight‑based, usually 8 mg/kg per day divided into one or two doses. Adults with kidney impairment need a reduced dose because the medication is cleared renally.

Common side effects, unwanted reactions that can occur while taking a medication include mild diarrhea, nausea, and occasional rash. Serious adverse events such as Clostridioides difficile infection are rare but possible, especially after prolonged courses. If symptoms persist or worsen, patients should contact their healthcare provider promptly.

Resistance is a moving target. Overuse of cefixime in community settings has led to increasing rates of Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains that produce beta‑lactamases, enzymes that break down the drug. The semantic triple “Resistance influences cefixime effectiveness” captures this reality. Surveillance data from many countries now recommend combination therapy or alternative agents for gonorrhea to preserve cefixime’s utility.

When prescribing, clinicians also consider drug interactions. Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium can lower cefixime absorption, so it’s best taken at least two hours before or after such products. Concurrent use with warfarin may modestly increase INR, necessitating closer monitoring.

Overall, cefixime remains a valuable tool in the antibiotic arsenal when used responsibly. Below you’ll find a curated list of articles that dive deeper into dosing strategies, comparative effectiveness with other antibiotics, safety tips for special populations, and the latest guidance on resistance trends. Each piece is designed to give you actionable insights you can put to use right away.