What It Is Used For
Cefixime is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It treats urinary tract infections, typhoid fever, throat, ear and chest infections, and gonorrhoea. It does not work for colds or flu.
How to Take It
Adults: usually 400 mg a day, as one dose or 200 mg twice a day, with or without food, for the days on your prescription. Children: dose by weight as suspension. Finish the full course even if you feel better. Only take antibiotics prescribed for you; misuse makes bacteria resistant.
Who Should Not Take It
Do not take it if you are allergic to Cefixime or other cephalosporins, or if you have had a severe allergic reaction to penicillin.
Side Effects
Common: diarrhoea, stomach pain, nausea and headache. Get urgent help for swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing or a blistering rash. Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea, even weeks later, needs a doctor.
Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, as a lower dose may be needed, or have had bowel inflammation (colitis).
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Use only if a doctor prescribes it; it is generally considered suitable when needed.
Interactions
It can increase the effect of warfarin. Tell your doctor about all your medicines.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, out of the reach of children. Once mixed, keep suspensions as the label says and throw away what is left after the course.