Cefixime: a clear, practical guide for patients
Have questions about cefixime? You’re in the right place. This short guide explains what cefixime treats, how people usually take it, common side effects, and simple safety tips you can use today.
What is cefixime and when is it used?
Cefixime is an oral antibiotic from the cephalosporin family. Doctors prescribe it for infections like ear infections (otitis media), strep throat, sinusitis, bronchitis, certain urinary tract infections, and as an alternative option for uncomplicated gonorrhea in some situations. It fights bacteria, not viruses, so it won’t help with colds or most sore throats caused by viruses.
Typical dosing and practical advice
The usual adult dose is 400 mg once daily or 200 mg twice daily. For children, doctors often use about 8 mg per kg of body weight per day, usually given once daily (max about 400 mg/day). Exact dosing depends on the infection and the person’s age, weight, and kidney function—so follow the prescriber’s instructions.
Take cefixime with or without food. If you feel stomach upset, take it with food to reduce nausea. Don’t skip doses and finish the full course even if you feel better before it’s done. Stopping early can let the infection come back and may encourage resistant bacteria.
If you’re on antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium, take them at least two hours before or after cefixime—these antacids can lower how much antibiotic your body absorbs. Tell your doctor about other medicines you take, especially blood thinners or kidney-related drugs.
People with known allergy to penicillins or other cephalosporins should tell their prescriber. Severe allergic reactions are rare but can happen.
Kidney function matters. If you have serious kidney disease, your doctor may lower the dose or change the schedule. Always mention kidney problems and share recent lab results if you have them.
Pregnant or breastfeeding? Cefixime is commonly used and often considered safe, but talk with your healthcare provider to weigh benefits and risks for your situation.
Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, and sometimes a rash. If you get severe diarrhea, especially with fever or blood in stools, contact your doctor. That could be C. difficile, a treatable but serious condition linked to antibiotics.
If you notice signs of a severe allergic reaction—hives, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing—seek emergency care right away.
Want to know more or worried about an interaction? Ask your pharmacist or prescriber. Practical tip: keep a list of your current medicines and allergies and bring it to every appointment. That simple habit avoids many problems.
Looking for articles or deeper reads on antibiotics and safe use? Search this site for related guides and medication pages tagged “cefixime.” If you have symptoms that need treatment, contact a healthcare provider rather than self-medicating.
