Cefixime is a prescription antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), tonsilitis, bronchitis, and gonorrhea. It is part of an antibiotic drug class called third-generation cephalosporin antibiotics, which work by killing bacteria that cause infections.

Cefixime is currently available under the brand name Suprax and comes in the oral dosage form of a capsule, tablet, chewable tablet, and powder for suspension.

Cefixime is used to treat bronchitis, uncomplicated urinary tract infections, gonorrhea, and infections of the ears, throat and tonsils such as pharyngitis and tonsillitis. Less commonly, it is also used to treat pneumonia, shigella, salmonella, typhoid fever, and sinus infections among other infections.

It is important to only use antibiotics like cefixime when prescribed, as taking antibiotics when they are not needed can increase your chance of contracting an antibiotic-resistant infection. Remember that antibiotics like cefixime are only effective against bacterial infections and will not work against viral infections such as the cold or flu.

Cephalosporin antibiotics like cefixime work by inhibiting certain proteins that bacteria need in order to build cell walls. Without the ability to build a strong cell wall, the bacteria will eventually die. This mechanism makes cefixime extremely effective in killing the bacteria that can cause UTIs, gonorrhea, pneumonia, and other infections.

However, antibiotics like cefixime are only effective against bacterial infections and will not work against viral infections such as the cold or flu.

Some of the most common side effects associated with cefixime include diarrhea, stomach pain, gas, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting.

This is not a complete list of adverse effects – though these are among the most common.

More serious side effects include:

• Skin rash
  
• Hives
  
• Swelling (in the face, throat, lips and eyes)
  
• Itching
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• A return of symptoms
  
• Bloody or watery stool
  
• Stomach cramps
  
  

Cefixime can impact the readings of certain blood sugar tests for diabetes, so be sure to use Clinistix or TesTape (not Clinitest) during urine tests.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with, as well as any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with cefixime. Cefixime can interact with other forms of medication and substances, causing potentially serious side effects. Be sure to let your doctor know if you’re taking any other cephalosporin antibiotics, as these may impact the effectiveness of cefixime.

You should also let your doctor know if you are taking any anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven), or carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Epito, Equetro, Tegretol, Teril), as these medications can interact with cefixime and cause potentially dangerous or life-threatening side effects.

In addition, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with this medication.

Cefixime comes as a capsule, tablet, chewable tablet, and powder for suspension. It usually is taken one or two times per day depending on your doctor’s instructions. For patients being treated for gonorrhea, cefixime is typically given in a single dose of 400-800 mg. The exact dosage will vary depending on the age of the patient and their body weight. Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of cefixime without consulting with your provider first. If you begin to experience adverse side effects while taking this medication, like those listed above, inform your provider right away.

If you are taking cefixime in capsule form, you should swallow the capsule whole with fluids and avoid chewing or breaking the capsule.

If you are taking cefixime in tablet form, you can cut or break the tablet before taking it, or chew it if it’s in chewable tablet form. It is critical to note that cefixime chewable tablets are sweetened with aspartame, which can be dangerous to those with phenylketonuria (PKU).

If you are taking cefixime in oral suspension form, be sure to shake the liquid well before consuming and make sure to measure it out per your healthcare provider’s instructions.

To prevent your infection from becoming resistant to antibiotics, you should continue taking the cefixime until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. Do not skip doses or stop taking the cefixime, and follow your doctor’s instructions closely.

You should store your medication in a closed container at room temperature, away from extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, and direct light, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Cefixime is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not cefixime is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for cefixime to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.