Cefixime
 
What is Cefixime and why is it prescribed?
Cefixime, a cephalosporin antibiotic, is prescribed for bacterial infections of the chest, ears, urinary tract, and throat and for uncomplicated gonorrhea. If you are allergic to either penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics in any form, consult your doctor before taking Cefixime. An allergy to either type of medication may signal an allergy to Cefixime, and if a reaction occurs, it could be extremely severe. If you take the drug and feel signs of a reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

How should you take Cefixime?
Follow your doctors directions for taking Cefixime. Cefixime can be taken with or without food. If the medication causes upset stomach, take it with meals. Food, however, will slow down the rate at which medication is absorbed into your bloodstream. If you are taking a liquid form of Cefixime, use the specially marked measuring spoon to measure each dose accurately. Shake well before using. It is important that you finish taking all of this medication even if you are feeling better, in order to obtain the medicine's maximum benefit. If you miss a dose and you are taking this medication once a day and you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Wait at least 10 to 12 hours before taking your next dose. Then return to your regular schedule. If you are taking this medication 2 times a day and you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember and take your next dose 5 to 6 hours later. Then go back to your regular schedule. If you are taking this medication 3 times a day and you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember and take your next dose 2 to 4 hours later. Then return to your regular schedule. Cefixime liquid may be kept for 14 days, either at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Keep the bottle tightly closed. Do not store in damp places. Keep out of reach of children and away from direct light and heat. Discard any unused portion after 14 days.

Are there any Cefixime side effects?
Cefixime side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Cefixime side effects may include abdominal pain, gas, indigestion, loose stools, mild diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Less common and rare Cefixime side effects may include bleeding, colitis, decrease in urine output, dizziness, fever, headaches, hepatitis, hives, itching, kidney failure, seizures, severe abdominal or stomach cramps, severe diarrhea, shock, skin peeling, skin rashes, skin redness, swollen face, swollen throat, vaginitis, and yellow skin and eyes.

What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Cefixime?
If Cefixime is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. When Cefixime and the seizure medication Tegretol are used together, the amount of Tegretol in the bloodstream may show an increase. Cefixime may also increase the effect of anticlotting drugs such as Coumadin.

Are there any special warnings about Cefixime?
Notify your doctor if you have had allergic reactions to penicillins or other cephalosporin antibiotics. If you have a history of stomach or intestinal disease such as colitis, check with your doctor before taking Cefixime. If your symptoms of infection do not improve within a few days, or if they get worse, notify your doctor immediately. If you suffer nausea, vomiting, or severe diarrhea while taking Cefixime, check with your doctor before taking a diarrhea medication. Some of these medications, such as Lomotil and Paregoric, may make your diarrhea worse or cause it to last longer. If you are a diabetic, it is important to note that Cefixime may cause false urine-sugar test results. Notify your doctor that you are taking Cefixime before being tested for sugar in the urine. Do not change diet or dosage of diabetes medication without first consulting with your doctor. When prescribing Cefixime, your doctor may perform laboratory tests to make certain it is effective against the bacteria causing the infection. Some bacteria do not respond to Cefixime, so do not give it to other people or use it for other infections. If you have a kidney disorder, check with your doctor before taking Cefixime. You may need a reduced dose of this medication because of your medical condition. Repeated use of Cefixime may result in an overgrowth of bacteria that do not respond to the medication and can cause a secondary infection. Therefore, do not save Cefixime for use at another time. Take Cefixime only when directed to do so by your doctor.
 

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