Cefixime: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Cefixime is a cephalosporin antibacterial medicine used to treat certain bacterial infections. It is most commonly prescribed for susceptible infections such as urinary tract infections, ear infections, throat infections and acute worsening of chronic bronchitis. Cefixime requires a prescription in the United Kingdom, and generic versions have been available since 2007-04-10.

Cefixime belongs to the cephalosporin class of antibacterial medicines. These medicines act on bacteria rather than viruses. They interfere with the enzymes bacteria need to build and maintain their protective cell wall.

When the cell wall cannot be formed properly, susceptible bacteria become unstable and may die, allowing the infection to clear. The medicine does not work against every type of bacterium, which is why treatment is intended for infections proven or strongly suspected to involve susceptible bacteria.

Using an antibacterial medicine when it is not needed can encourage drug-resistant bacteria. The choice of cefixime also depends on the infection, the likely bacteria and individual factors such as kidney function.

Cefixime is used for certain bacterial infections in adults and children aged six months and older. Listed uses include uncomplicated urinary tract infections, middle-ear infection, inflammation or infection of the throat and tonsils, and acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis. It is also indicated for uncomplicated cervical or urethral gonorrhoea caused by susceptible bacteria.

The medicine should be used only when an infection is proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria, because unnecessary antibacterial treatment can encourage resistance. The label identifies particular susceptible bacteria for each infection, so the choice of treatment depends on the infection and clinical assessment. Cefixime is not intended to treat viral illnesses.

The label lists 400 mg capsules and 400 mg tablets. The label lists oral suspension strengths of 100 mg/5 mL and 200 mg/5 mL. The usual starting dose is 400 mg daily for adults.

The label lists a single oral dose of 400 mg for uncomplicated cervical or urethral gonococcal infection. The usual starting dose is 8 mg/kg/day for paediatric patients aged six months and older, given as one daily dose or as 4 mg/kg every 12 hours. The label lists at least 10 days of treatment for infections due to Streptococcus pyogenes.

The label lists dose adjustment for adults with renal impairment and for patients receiving dialysis. The label states that oral suspension millilitre doses must include the concentration because two concentrations are available. The label states that otitis media should be treated with oral suspension rather than substituting a tablet or capsule at the same dose.

Store capsules and tablets at 20°C to 25°C, protected from unsuitable storage conditions. After reconstitution, the oral suspension may be kept at room temperature or under refrigeration for 14 days and should be kept tightly closed. Shake the suspension well before use and discard any unused portion after 14 days.

A missed dose can reduce the amount of antibacterial medicine available to treat the infection. General pharmacy guidance is to follow the prescribed schedule and seek advice from a pharmacist or doctor if a dose is missed or several doses have been missed.

A double dose should not be used to compensate unless a prescriber specifically advises this. Completing the prescribed course helps reduce the risk of treatment failure and drug resistance.

Available pregnancy data from observational studies, case series and case reports have not established drug-associated risks of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes with cephalosporins, including cefixime. There are no available data on cefixime in human milk, effects on the breast-fed infant or effects on milk production.

The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered alongside the mother's clinical need and possible adverse effects. Pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist.