Cefixime 200 mg

Category- Allopathy

Medicine Highlights

Cefixime Uses 

Cefixime is an antibiotic medicine that belongs to the class of cephalosporins. It is used to kill bacteria and treat symptoms of conditions like: 

1. Throat infections such as tonsillitis and pharyngitis 
2. Ear infections (otitis media) 
3. Sinus infections 
4. Chest infections like bronchitis and mild pneumonia 
5. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) 
6. Typhoid fever 
7. Gonorrhea (a sexually transmitted infection)   

Directions for use

1. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the same time each day. 
2. Do not stop taking this medicine without your doctor’s approval, even if you feel better. 
3. If you forget to take this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. 

Cefixime side effects 

More Common  

1. Nausea 
2. Vomiting 
3. Diarrhea 
4. Stomach pain or upset 
5. Headache 
6. Mild skin rash or itching    

Less Common

1. Severe allergic reactions (swelling, difficulty breathing, hives) 
2. Severe diarrhea (C. difficile infection) 
3. Dizziness or fainting 
4. Liver problems (jaundice, dark urine) 
5. Yeast infections (oral or vaginal)  

How Cefixime works 

Cefixime works by blocking the bacteria’s ability to form their skin (scientifically known as cell wall). Without a strong cell wall, bacteria become weak and burst, which stops the infection. It is effective against many gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. 

Safety Measures and Warning 

Allergy or hypersensitivity

Avoid cefixime if you have ever had an allergic reaction to cefixime, other cephalosporins, or penicillin antibiotics, as taking it again may cause breathing problems, wheezing, skin rashes, swelling, or serious allergic reactions. Always inform your doctor if you have had any reaction to antibiotics before using this medicine. 

Kidney Problems

Use cefixime with caution if you have severe kidney disease, as the medicine may build up in your body and increase side effects. Dose adjustment is usually required. 

Severe Allergic Conditions

People with a history of severe allergies or asthma should use cefixime carefully, as they have a higher risk of allergic reactions. 

History of Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea

Avoid cefixime if you previously developed severe diarrhea or C. difficile bacterial infection after taking antibiotics, unless your doctor decides it’s necessary. 

Liver Problems

Liver disease may affect how your body processes the medicine after you take it. Kindly communicate with your doctor in case of any past liver disease history, so the treatment can be adjusted appropriately if needed. 

Cefixime Interaction with Food Product

Cefixime can be taken with or without food. Taking it with meals may help reduce stomach upset. Avoid alcohol if it causes dizziness or nausea, though it does not directly affect the medicine. Drink plenty of water to help the body absorb and eliminate the antibiotic properly. 

Cefixime Interaction with Other Medicines

Avoid taking Cefixime with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal: 

Cefixime Chemical Structure

IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name

Cefixime: (6R,7R)-7-[[(2Z)-2-(2-amino-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)-2-(carboxymethoxyimino)acetyl]amino]-3-ethenyl-8-oxo-5-thia-1-azabicyclo[4.2.0]oct-2-ene-2-carboxylic acid 

Intake routine/cycle

Daily dose

Take Cefixime exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor. 

Missed Dose

If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage. 

Overdose

It is not recommended to take Cefixime more than 400 mg per day. Overdose may cause tremors, chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, nervousness, dizziness, headache, muscle cramps, or high blood pressure. In case of any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical help. 

Storage

1. Store the medicine at room temperature 
2. Keep away from sunlight and moisture 
3. Keep out of reach of children 

Cefixime Summary

Cefixime is a cephalosporin-class antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as throat infections (tonsillitis, pharyngitis), ear infections (otitis media), sinus infections, chest infections (bronchitis, mild pneumonia), urinary tract infections, typhoid fever, and gonorrhea. It works by blocking the bacteria’s ability to form their cell wall, causing them to break down and die. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, and mild skin rashes, while rare but serious effects may include severe allergic reactions, liver problems, severe diarrhea, dizziness, and yeast infections.

Cefixime should not be taken by people allergic to cefixime, other cephalosporins, or penicillin, and should be used with caution in those with kidney or liver problems, severe allergies, or a history of antibiotic-related diarrhea. It can be taken with or without food, though meals may help reduce stomach upset, and intake of alcohol should be limited. The usual adult dose is 200–400 mg once or twice daily for 5–14 days, as prescribed by a doctor. Cefixime is generally considered safe during pregnancy if needed but should only be taken under medical guidance.  

FAQ’s

What are the uses of Cefixime? 

It is used to treat bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, respiratory infections (like pneumonia or bronchitis), ear infections, throat infections, and skin infections caused by bacteria. 

What are the side effects of Cefixime? 

Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, or mild headache. Some people may get rash, itching, or mild allergic reactions. Rare but serious side effects can include severe allergic reactions (swelling, difficulty breathing), liver problems, or severe diarrhea caused by Clostridium difficile infection. 

What is the usual adult dosage of Cefixime? 

For adults, the typical dose of Cefixime is 200 mg to 400 mg once or twice daily, depending on the type and severity of the infection. The duration usually ranges from 5 to 14 days as prescribed by the doctor. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and complete the full course. 

Is Cefixime safe to take during pregnancy? 

Cefixime is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy if clearly needed, but it should only be taken under a doctor’s guidance. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant before starting the medicine. 

What class of drug is Cefixime? 

Cefixime belongs to the cephalosporin class of antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria and treating bacterial infections. 

Reference 

1. PubChem. Cefixime [Internet]. Nih.gov. PubChem; 2025. Available from 
2. Cefixime Dosage Guide with Precautions [Internet]. Drugs.com. Available from 
3. Cefixime (oral route) [Internet]. Mayo Clinic. 2024. Available from 

Pranathi Chintaluri

Pranathi is a final year Pharm D student at Chalapathi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences. She loves learning and applying her knowledge in pharmacy and has a passion for writing, which allows her to express ideas clearly and creatively. She enjoys combining her technical skills with her love for writing and communication to make a meaningful impact. Currently she is working on a research paper about “Consanguineous marriages and its impact on children’s health” which will be published by the end of 2025.