Cefixime is an antibiotic with the active ingredient cefixime. It is also known by alternative names such as Suprax. Cefixime is used to treat bacterial infections like ear infections, throat infections, and urinary tract infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
Cefixime has a price point ranging from £2.31 to £3.79 per pills. Variations in price are linked to the pack’s dimension and the active ingredient dosage (10 or 180 mg).
Cefixime belongs to the third generation of cephalosporin antibiotics. It is used to combat gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial infections. Cephalosporins work by disrupting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall.
Cefixime is prescribed for infections such as otitis media, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis, uncomplicated urinary tract infections, and uncomplicated gonorrhea. The specific indication depends on the susceptibility of the causative organism. It is also used for certain skin infections and other localized bacterial infections.
Cefixime inhibits the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis in bacterial cell walls by binding to one or more of the penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). This activity results in the formation of defective cell walls, leading to cell lysis and death.
Orally administered Cefixime is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, though food can reduce the absorption rate. The bioavailability is approximately 40-50%. It reaches peak plasma concentrations in 2-6 hours. The absorption can be erratic among different individuals.
After absorption, Cefixime is widely distributed in body tissues and fluids. The drug has a protein-binding rate of 65%, mostly to serum albumin. It penetrates well into synovial and peritoneal fluids, and bile.
Cefixime is minimally metabolized in the body. The primary route of elimination is renal excretion, with around 50% of the administered dose excreted unchanged in the urine. The elimination half-life is about 3-4 hours in patients with normal renal function.
Cefixime is available in several dosage forms: tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, and oral suspension. The formulation varies depending on patient age, medical condition, and ease of administration. Different formulations may have specific storage requirements.
The typical adult dosage for most infections is 400 mg per day. This may be administered as a single dose or in two divided doses. Pediatric dosage is generally 8 mg/kg/day administered in single or two divided doses, depending on the child’s weight and severity of the infection.
Common side effects of Cefixime include gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. Other possible side effects are headache, dizziness, and hypersensitivity reactions like rash and pruritus. Serious adverse effects can include pseudomembranous colitis and anaphylaxis.
Cefixime is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to cephalosporins. Caution is advised in patients with a history of severe hypersensitivity to penicillins due to possible cross-reactivity.
Cefixime may interact with certain medications such as warfarin, enhancing its anticoagulant effects. Interaction with nephrotoxic drugs like aminoglycosides and diuretics can increase the risk of renal impairment. Probenecid can inhibit renal excretion of Cefixime, leading to increased concentrations of the drug.
Monitoring includes watching for signs of hypersensitivity reactions, gastrointestinal complications, and renal function assessment. For patients on long-term therapy, periodic complete blood counts (CBC) and liver and kidney function tests are recommended.
Store Cefixime at controlled room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), away from moisture and direct light. Oral suspension should be kept in the refrigerator and should be discarded 14 days after reconstitution.
In elderly patients, dosage may need adjustment due to possible renal impairment. For pregnant women, Cefixime should only be used if clearly needed and if the potential benefits outweigh risks. It is excreted in human milk; thus, caution is recommended when administered to breastfeeding women.
Cefixime may cause a false-positive reaction for glucose in urine tests. It can also interfere with certain other laboratory tests measuring hepatic enzymes or alkaline phosphatase. Notify laboratory personnel about Cefixime therapy.
Inform patients to take the medication exactly as prescribed. Advise them to complete the entire course, even if they feel better. Caution them about the potential for gastrointestinal disturbances and potential allergic reactions, advising them to seek immediate medical attention if severe side effects occur.
In the event of an overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be provided. There is no specific antidote for Cefixime overdose. Gastric lavage may be beneficial if performed soon after ingestion. Monitor renal function, and ensure adequate hydration.
Cefixime has bactericidal activity and exhibits a time-dependent killing mechanism. MIC values guide effective dosing regimens. The antibacterial spectrum includes several gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.