| name | Cefixime |
| classification | Cephalosporin antibiotic |
| pharmacokinetics | Cefixime is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 1-2 hours after oral administration. It is distributed throughout the body and crosses the blood-brain barrier to some extent. It is primarily eliminated by renal excretion, with the majority of the unchanged drug being excreted in the urine. The half-life is typically 2-3 hours, but can be prolonged in renal impairment. |
| suggested dosage | | adult | The usual dosage for adults is 400 mg once daily or 200 mg twice daily, depending on the severity of the infection. The dosage should be adjusted based on the patient's renal function if impaired. | | pediatric | Dosage varies according to age and weight. Consult a healthcare professional for specific pediatric dosage information. | | note | Specific dosage for a 25-year-old male weighing 70 kg is generally 400 mg once daily unless otherwise guided by clinical judgment. |
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| indications | Cefixime is indicated for the treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). |
| safety in pregnancy | Cefixime is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. However, as with any medication, careful consideration and monitoring by a healthcare professional is advised, particularly during the first trimester. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Limited data suggests that cefixime may pass into breast milk in small amounts. The decision to use cefixime during breastfeeding should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, weighing the potential benefits against any potential risks to the infant. |
| side effects | | 1 | Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) | | 2 | Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, hives, itching) | | 3 | Headache | | 4 | Elevated liver enzymes (in rare cases) | | 5 | Superinfection (growth of non-susceptible organisms) |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | Patients with known hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or other penicillins should not take cefixime. |
| interactions | Cefixime may interact with certain medications, including other antibiotics, anticoagulants, and oral contraceptives. Consult with a physician or pharmacist before taking any other medications simultaneously. |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Patients with pre-existing kidney problems may need adjusted dosages. Renal function should be evaluated before and during treatment. | | 2 | Monitor for signs of allergic reactions. Discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately if an allergic reaction occurs. | | 3 | Cefixime should be used with caution in patients with a history of gastrointestinal disorders. |
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| additional informations | Use the drug as directed by your physician. Do not discontinue use without consulting your physician, even if you feel better. Store the medication according to the product instructions. |
| patient specific notes | Patient's age and weight are taken into account but dosage recommendations should be reviewed and finalized by a prescribing physician for optimal treatment. |
