Cefixime
Cefixime is a third generation semisynthetic cephalosporin antibiotic. Cephalosporins are derivatives of 7-aminocephalosporic acid and are closely related to penicillins in structure. Cephalosporins have a six membered sulfur containing ring adjoining a ß lactam ring. Cefixime is effective in a large variety of bacterial infections, such as respiratory tract, ear, skin, gonorrhea, otitis media, and urinary tract infections. Administered orally. Antibiotics require constant drug level in body for therapeutic effect. This is achieved by taking the medication at regular interval of time throughout the day and night as prescribed. Cefixime is important to take the drug for the full time period as prescribed. If you discontinue the therapy, it may result in ineffective treatment.
Primary Characteristics
Cefixime is also known as Cefixime Trihydrate.
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Cephalosporin.
It belongs to Peptidoglycan synthesis inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antibiotic, Cephalosporin-3rd Gen pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 453.4 · pKa: 2-2.5 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 2000 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 125 · Non-proprietary name: Cefixime.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Cefixime has an oral bioavailability is 60%.
Distribution: Cefixime has a volume of distribution is 0.1 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 70%.
Elimination: plasma half-life is 2.5-3.8 hr, renal excretion is 41%. also excreted in bile and urine.
Advertisement
Indications
Cefixime is primarily indicated in conditions like Bronchitis, Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, Gonorrhoea, Otitis media, Pharyngitis, Pneumonia, Respiratory tract infections, Uncomplicated UTIs.
Cefixime is also indicated for secondary conditions like Gonococcal urethritis, Typhoid.
Contraindications
Cefixime is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Cefixime's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 300 mg | 300 mg | Every 24h | PO | Dose vary according to indication. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 4 mg/kg | 4 mg/kg | Every 12h | Oral | It may be given once a day. |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 4 mg/kg | 4 mg/kg | Every 12h | Oral | - |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Cefixime in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Pseudomembranous colitis , Thrombocytopenia , Thrombophlebitis , Leucopenia, Seizures , Vaginitis .
Cefixime is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal pain, Anorexia , Diarrhea, Dizziness, Dyspepsia , Flatulence, Headache, Hypersensitivity , Increased intracranial pressure, Nausea, Pain at injection site, Pruritus , Urticaria, Vomiting , Xerostomia .
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Cefixime may interfere in the diagnosis of False +ve Coombs Test , FAlse +ve reaction for Urinary glucose with Benedicts, Fehlings or CuSO4 tes tablest. .
Available Brands
Click on a strength to view available brands.
Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.2.1.3 — Cephalosporins
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Cefixime in Pakistan: